February 17, 2020: SOAP #3728:  Numbers 1-2; Acts 24

Scripture:  Acts (NIV) 24:27  When two years had passed, Felix was succeeded by Porcius Festus, but because Felix wanted to grant a favor to the Jews, he left Paul in prison.
Genesis (NIV) 40:23 The chief cupbearer, however, did not remember Joseph; he forgot him. 41:1 When two full years had passed, Pharaoh had a dream: He was standing by the Nile,

Observation:  Two different men, Paul and Joseph.  Two different times separated by 17 centuries.  Two different places, Egypt and Palestine.  Two different authorities, an Egyptian Pharaoh and a Roman governor.  Two men, both serving the same God in their generation.  Both falsely accused and in jail.  Both were in jail for over two years.  Both did not get bitter but looked for opportunity to serve their God and those around them.

Both were released from prison, Joseph to become 2^nd in command of all Egypt and Paul eventually to a martyr’s death.

Both had key positions to fill in God’s plan in preparing a body of redeemed people to rule and reign with Him for eternity!   Their faithfulness in the bad and good times led to much fruitfulness.

Application:   I have (Each one has) a specific place to fill in God’s kingdom.   I (we) must learn from Joseph and Paul that faithfulness leads to fruitfulness.

Prayer:   Heavenly Father, being faithfully committed to you leads to fruitfulness.  Encourage and strengthen me to be faithful.  Amen

Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity!