Embracing God's Favor: Lessons from Joseph's Journey
Summary
### Summary
Welcome, everyone. Today, we delve into the story of Joseph from Genesis 37, a narrative that mirrors the life of Christ and offers profound lessons on faith, favor, and perseverance. Joseph, at 17, was favored by his father Jacob, who gave him a coat of many colors. This coat symbolized the unique favor and calling on Joseph's life, but it also made him a target of envy and hatred from his brothers. They conspired to kill him, saying, "We shall see what will come of his dreams" ([02:49]).
Joseph's journey teaches us that God's favor is not something we can earn or buy; it is freely given. This favor, however, comes with its own set of challenges. It attracts envy and opposition, often from unexpected quarters, including one's own family. Joseph's brothers hated him not just for his dreams but because they saw in him what they had lost in themselves—a dream and the faith to pursue it ([14:42]).
Despite the opposition, Joseph did not let his circumstances define him. When his brothers stripped him of his coat, he understood that his favor was not in the coat but in God's hand upon his life. He knew that no matter what he wore or where he stood, God's favor remained with him ([21:49]). This is a powerful reminder that our identity and worth are not tied to external symbols but to God's presence within us.
Joseph's story also highlights the importance of not chasing dreams but chasing the Dream Giver. Throughout his trials—in the pit, in Potiphar's house, in prison, and finally in the palace—Joseph remained focused on God. The Bible repeatedly states, "The Lord was with him," underscoring that true success comes from God's presence, not from our efforts to chase dreams ([27:22]).
Moreover, Joseph's life teaches us to handle opposition with grace. Instead of retaliating against those who wronged him, Joseph prayed for them. He understood that his enemies' actions were ultimately against God, not him. He prayed that his enemies would live long enough to see God's promises fulfilled in his life ([20:10]).
Finally, Joseph's story encourages us to embrace our uniqueness. His coat of many colors was a symbol of his unique calling and identity. We are all uniquely designed by God, and it is okay to be different. The world may reject what is different, but God has a unique purpose for each of us. We are called to stand out, not conform, and to let our light shine in a world that often prefers sameness ([25:59]).
### Key Takeaways
1. God's Favor is Freely Given and Unshakeable:
God's favor is not something we can earn or buy; it is freely given. Joseph's coat of many colors symbolized this favor, but even when stripped of it, Joseph knew his favor remained because it was from God. Our identity and worth are not tied to external symbols but to God's presence within us. [21:49]
2. Chase the Dream Giver, Not the Dream:
Joseph's life teaches us to focus on God rather than chasing dreams. Throughout his trials, the Bible states, "The Lord was with him," highlighting that true success comes from God's presence. When we prioritize our relationship with God, the dreams He has for us will naturally come to pass. [27:22]
3. Handle Opposition with Grace:
Joseph faced significant opposition, yet he chose to pray for his enemies rather than retaliate. He understood that their actions were ultimately against God. This teaches us to respond to opposition with grace and prayer, trusting that God will vindicate us in His time. [20:10]
4. Embrace Your Uniqueness:
Joseph's coat of many colors was a symbol of his unique calling. We are all uniquely designed by God, and it is okay to be different. The world may reject what is different, but God has a unique purpose for each of us. We are called to stand out, not conform, and to let our light shine. [25:59]
5. Faith in the Valley:
The journey to fulfilling God's dream often involves walking through valleys of uncertainty and trials. Joseph's story reminds us that faith is forged in these valleys. Trusting God in the midst of challenges is crucial because His character and promises are unchanging. [03:28]
### Youtube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[00:46] - Introduction to Joseph's Story
[02:49] - Joseph's Coat and His Brothers' Envy
[03:28] - Faith in the Valley
[14:42] - Handling Opposition and Self-Hatred
[20:10] - Praying for Your Enemies
[21:49] - God's Favor is Unshakeable
[25:59] - Embrace Your Uniqueness
[27:22] - Chase the Dream Giver, Not the Dream
[28:44] - Conclusion and Prayer
Study Guide
### Bible Reading
- Genesis 37:1-5, 18-20
### Observation Questions
1. What was the significance of the coat of many colors that Joseph received from his father? ([02:01])
2. How did Joseph's brothers react to his dreams and the favor shown to him by their father? ([02:49])
3. What was Joseph's response when his brothers stripped him of his coat and threw him into the pit? ([21:49])
4. How did Joseph handle the opposition and hatred from his brothers throughout his journey? ([20:10])
### Interpretation Questions
1. What does Joseph's story teach us about the nature of God's favor and how it is bestowed upon us? ([07:44])
2. How can Joseph's focus on God rather than his dreams serve as a model for our own lives? ([27:22])
3. In what ways did Joseph's handling of opposition with grace reflect his faith and trust in God? ([20:10])
4. How does Joseph's story encourage us to embrace our uniqueness and the unique calling God has for each of us? ([25:59])
### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a time when you felt God's favor in your life. How did you handle any opposition or envy that came with it? ([04:16])
2. Are there dreams or goals in your life that you have been chasing? How can you shift your focus to chasing the Dream Giver instead? ([27:22])
3. Think of someone who has wronged you or opposed you. How can you respond to them with grace and prayer, as Joseph did? ([20:10])
4. In what ways can you embrace your uniqueness and stand out in a world that often prefers sameness? ([25:59])
5. Joseph's faith was forged in the valleys of his life. How can you trust God more deeply during your own challenging times? ([03:28])
6. How can you celebrate the victories and successes of others without feeling envious or jealous? ([09:01])
7. Identify one specific area in your life where you need to let go of external symbols of worth and focus on God's presence within you. ([21:49])
Devotional
Day 1: God's Favor is Freely Given and Unshakeable
God's favor is not something we can earn or buy; it is freely given. Joseph's coat of many colors symbolized this favor, but even when stripped of it, Joseph knew his favor remained because it was from God. Our identity and worth are not tied to external symbols but to God's presence within us. Joseph's journey teaches us that God's favor is constant and unshakeable, regardless of our external circumstances. Even when Joseph was sold into slavery and later imprisoned, he remained confident in God's favor and presence in his life. This unwavering faith in God's favor allowed him to persevere through the most challenging times.
As believers, we must remember that our worth and identity are rooted in God's love and favor, not in our achievements or possessions. When we face trials and opposition, we can find comfort in knowing that God's favor is with us, just as it was with Joseph. This assurance enables us to stand firm in our faith and trust in God's plan for our lives, even when the path seems uncertain. [21:49]
Genesis 39:2-3 (ESV): "The Lord was with Joseph, and he became a successful man, and he was in the house of his Egyptian master. His master saw that the Lord was with him and that the Lord caused all that he did to succeed in his hands."
Reflection: Think of a time when you felt stripped of something valuable. How did you see God's favor in your life despite that loss?
Day 2: Chase the Dream Giver, Not the Dream
Joseph's life teaches us to focus on God rather than chasing dreams. Throughout his trials, the Bible states, "The Lord was with him," highlighting that true success comes from God's presence. When we prioritize our relationship with God, the dreams He has for us will naturally come to pass. Joseph's unwavering focus on God, even in the face of adversity, is a powerful example for us. He did not let his circumstances deter him from seeking God's presence and guidance. Instead of being consumed by his dreams, Joseph remained steadfast in his faith, trusting that God would fulfill His promises in due time.
In our own lives, it is easy to become fixated on our goals and aspirations, often at the expense of our relationship with God. However, true fulfillment and success come from aligning our hearts with God's will and seeking His presence above all else. When we chase the Dream Giver, we can trust that He will lead us to the dreams He has placed in our hearts. [27:22]
Psalm 37:4-5 (ESV): "Delight yourself in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart. Commit your way to the Lord; trust in him, and he will act."
Reflection: Are there any dreams or goals you have been chasing more than your relationship with God? How can you refocus on the Dream Giver today?
Day 3: Handle Opposition with Grace
Joseph faced significant opposition, yet he chose to pray for his enemies rather than retaliate. He understood that their actions were ultimately against God. This teaches us to respond to opposition with grace and prayer, trusting that God will vindicate us in His time. Joseph's ability to forgive and pray for those who wronged him is a testament to his deep faith and trust in God's justice. Instead of harboring bitterness or seeking revenge, Joseph chose to extend grace and forgiveness, knowing that God was in control of his destiny.
In our own lives, we will inevitably face opposition and challenges from others. How we respond to these situations can either draw us closer to God or lead us away from His peace. By choosing to handle opposition with grace and prayer, we demonstrate our trust in God's sovereignty and His ability to work all things for our good. [20:10]
Romans 12:19-21 (ESV): "Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, 'Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.' To the contrary, 'if your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink; for by so doing you will heap burning coals on his head.' Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good."
Reflection: Think of someone who has wronged you. How can you extend grace and pray for them today?
Day 4: Embrace Your Uniqueness
Joseph's coat of many colors was a symbol of his unique calling. We are all uniquely designed by God, and it is okay to be different. The world may reject what is different, but God has a unique purpose for each of us. We are called to stand out, not conform, and to let our light shine. Joseph's distinctiveness set him apart, and although it brought him challenges, it was also the key to his God-given destiny. His willingness to embrace his uniqueness ultimately led to his rise to power and the fulfillment of God's plan for his life.
In a world that often values conformity, it can be difficult to embrace our unique qualities and callings. However, God has created each of us with a specific purpose and design. By embracing our uniqueness and trusting in God's plan, we can fulfill the roles He has prepared for us and make a meaningful impact in the world. [25:59]
1 Peter 2:9 (ESV): "But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light."
Reflection: What unique qualities or callings has God given you? How can you embrace and use them to serve Him and others today?
Day 5: Faith in the Valley
The journey to fulfilling God's dream often involves walking through valleys of uncertainty and trials. Joseph's story reminds us that faith is forged in these valleys. Trusting God in the midst of challenges is crucial because His character and promises are unchanging. Joseph's faith was tested repeatedly, from being thrown into a pit by his brothers to being falsely accused and imprisoned. Yet, through it all, he remained steadfast in his trust in God, knowing that God's promises would ultimately be fulfilled.
In our own lives, we will face valleys of uncertainty and trials that test our faith. It is in these moments that our trust in God is strengthened and refined. By holding onto God's unchanging character and promises, we can navigate these difficult times with confidence and hope, knowing that He is with us every step of the way. [03:28]
James 1:2-4 (ESV): "Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing."
Reflection: Think of a current challenge or trial you are facing. How can you trust God more deeply in this valley and allow your faith to be strengthened?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "Stop living out of other people's mouths. Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word proceeding out of the mouth of God, Jesus said, and you need to live out the mouth of God and not the mouth of people. I don't care who they are. Mama, daddy, pastor, people live out of God's mouth. What God says. Y'all don't hear me today. Give God some praise. I'm going to do it because God said I could. I'm going to be it because God says I am." [20:10]
2. "They thought taking the coat would cause the grace to fall away. But Joseph knew that his favor, his grace was not in his coat. How many of y'all know it's not in your coat? It's not in your degrees. It's not in your money. It's not in your pedigree. Amen. It's in the hand of God. It's in the will of God. It's just the favor of the Father on your life. And you can take the coat and still I got the favor." [21:49]
3. "The lower I pushed it, the higher it flew. I don't know who I'm preaching to here today, but God's trying to send you somewhere. God's trying to take you somewhere. You say, I'm being crushed. You saying I'm being put down. You saying that it's rough. You saying that it's hard, but the lower you go, the higher you'll fly. I don't know who I'm preaching to here today. Amen. Three, two, one. Cast off. Blast off. Do what God has called you to do. Be who God has called you to be." [24:24]
4. "Be different. Be different. Don't be sane. People like sane. And they are rejecting different. But God has uniquely designed you. I love the way the Bible calls it, a coat of many colors. It can't be duplicated. It's a one of a kind, like a quilt, a really good quilt made by one of the mothers. It can't duplicate it. Walmart can't do it. People in China can't do it because it's custom made. And he had a coat that was for him. It fit him. And he was different. He thought different. He lived different. He acted different. And you are too. And it's okay." [25:59]
5. "Here's the secret of Joseph, not chasing dreams, chasing God. You heard a man, the great speeches that were said earlier, they said that chase him and you'll get the dream. It's the secret of success. Don't chase, I'm not saying don't dream. That's not what I'm saying. I'm not saying don't push, don't push forward. Don't go forward. Yes, you got to do it. You got to plan. You got to set goals and all that's great. And it's important that you do that. But at the top of the list, chase God. Follow him. And I'm going to tell you, the dreams will come to pass." [27:22]
### Quotes for Members
1. "Joseph didn't get discouraged because he knew that they were not just criticizing him. They were criticizing God who gave him the dream. And here's my prayer for you, that your enemies will live long enough to see you succeed. Amen. Don't cuss them. Don't fight them. Don't get all in their face. Don't become defensive about it. Just begin to pray for them. And here's what you pray. Lord, let them live long enough to see the dream manifest in my life. Lord, don't let my enemies die too soon. Let them see the cloud on my head. Let them see me walk through. Amen. And receive my reward." [20:10]
2. "They thought taking the coat would cause the grace to fall away. But Joseph knew that his favor, his grace was not in his coat. How many of y'all know it's not in your coat? It's not in your degrees. It's not in your money. It's not in your pedigree. Amen. It's in the hand of God. It's in the will of God. It's just the favor of the Father on your life. And you can take the coat and still I got the favor." [21:49]
3. "The lower I pushed it, the higher it flew. I don't know who I'm preaching to here today, but God's trying to send you somewhere. God's trying to take you somewhere. You say, I'm being crushed. You saying I'm being put down. You saying that it's rough. You saying that it's hard, but the lower you go, the higher you'll fly. I don't know who I'm preaching to here today. Amen. Three, two, one. Cast off. Blast off. Do what God has called you to do. Be who God has called you to be." [24:24]
4. "Be different. Be different. Don't be sane. People like sane. And they are rejecting different. But God has uniquely designed you. I love the way the Bible calls it, a coat of many colors. It can't be duplicated. It's a one of a kind, like a quilt, a really good quilt made by one of the mothers. It can't duplicate it. Walmart can't do it. People in China can't do it because it's custom made. And he had a coat that was for him. It fit him. And he was different. He thought different. He lived different. He acted different. And you are too. And it's okay." [25:59]
5. "Here's the secret of Joseph, not chasing dreams, chasing God. You heard a man, the great speeches that were said earlier, they said that chase him and you'll get the dream. It's the secret of success. Don't chase, I'm not saying don't dream. That's not what I'm saying. I'm not saying don't push, don't push forward. Don't go forward. Yes, you got to do it. You got to plan. You got to set goals and all that's great. And it's important that you do that. But at the top of the list, chase God. Follow him. And I'm going to tell you, the dreams will come to pass." [27:22]
6. "The dream for your life, God's purpose for your life is tied to his character. He's never lied. What God says he'll perform is tied to his character, who he is, but also to your favor. Come on, somebody, tell him I'm favored by the Lord. Come on, favored, favored by the Lord. But listen, favor can be either a blessing or a curse. I know we want favor and amen. Maybe some of y'all didn't always hardly clap because you know favor has good things, but it also has a negative side. The good thing is God's with you. And you know that God is with you and that God will make a way for you. So in the midst of trials, you know that God somehow will come through. The negative side of favor is favor makes you a target, that there are people who are jealous, envious, and wants to, if you would, somehow derail you from the favor that God has placed in your life. Favor attracts haters." [04:16]
7. "Everybody's not happy about the favor on your life. Everybody is not happy about what God wants to do in your life, and sometimes the hardest people to convince are not your friends, and it's not going to be your foes, the people you expect to be against you. No, sometimes the very people who are supposedly against you are the people who are going to pull you out. When Joseph later is put in the pit, guess who it was who lifted him out of the pit? It was the Midianites. It was slave traders, negative people who pulled him out. Sometimes the people who will pull you out of your pit are the people you don't expect." [05:26]
8. "Joseph had his greatest challenge, not, amen, in the pit, because the Midianites, pulled him out of the pit. It wasn't in Potiphar's house, because he got to run the house. It wasn't in prison, because he was the runner of the prison, amen. It wasn't in the palace, because the pharaoh gave him everything he wanted to do. No, no. His greatest challenge of his life was with his own blood, with his own family. Oh, if you sit next to him, just keep looking straight ahead. Don't say anything. But I'm telling you, amen, it may not be your mother, your father, your brothers and sisters, but cousins and nieces and uncles and nephews, and come on, although you will find your greatest pain, you will find your greatest pain, you will find your greatest pain." [06:32]
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