January 16, 2019: SOAP #3331:  Genesis 39-41; Luke 16

Scripture:  Genesis (NIV) 39:20 Joseph’s master took him and put him in prison, the place where the king’s prisoners were confined. But while Joseph was there in the prison, 21 the LORD was with him; he showed him kindness and granted him favor in the eyes of the prison warder.

Observation:  Joseph was in prison, but he was not there alone.  God was with him!  Prison could not prevent God’s blessings and favor from reaching him.  God not only blest Joseph in prison, God also made Joseph a blessing to the warden and to the other prisoners.

Being in prison was God’s perfect plan for Joseph.  He was prevented from the temptation to return home.  He was readily available when Pharaoh called him to interpret his dream.  He had no loose ends to complete before moving into Pharaoh’s assignment.

Application:  Nothing can prevent God’s blessings and favor from finding me.  Even if people treat me wrongly, I can know that God is with me.  He can bless me and make me a blessing wherever I am.

The only thing I could imagine greater than being transferred from an Egyptian prison to being second in command of all of Egypt would be to be transferred from a death bed on earth to the Throne Room of Heaven.

Prayer:   Heavenly Father, like Joseph in prison, I may not have freedom to go where I want to go and do what I want to do, but there nothing that can stop your blessing and favor from getting to me!  Holy Spirit, help me take my eyes off what limits me and see what blesses me.  May I be ready and available when you call.  Amen

Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity!