Faith Without a Safety Net – A Journey from Illusion to Truth

by Joseph | Feb 15, 2025 | Sharing

“Trust in the LORD with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.” – Proverbs 3:5-6

This Scripture in Proverbs is one of my favorites… Like many people, I’ve read it, reflected on it, and thought I understood it. I really did. Until recently, when God lovingly stripped away my illusions…

Let me share something profound that’s transforming my entire understanding of faith.

I had left a secure financial position, proudly telling everyone I was “stepping out in faith.” My heart was sincere, but my actions? Well, that’s where this story gets interesting – and maybe a bit convicting.

Like those Isaiah warned about who “relied on horses and trusted in chariots” (Isaiah 31:1), I had my own modern-day backup cavalry: retirement plans, financial safety nets, carefully crafted contingency plans. I thought I was being wise. Responsible. Strategic.

Then, in one breath-taking moment, everything changed. Every safety net? Gone. Every backup plan? Shattered. Every security blanket? Stripped away.

But here’s where the beauty begins…

In the midst of what felt like chaos, I discovered something magnificent. Like Peter stepping out of that boat (Matthew 14:29), I found myself in a position where there was nothing – absolutely nothing – between me and God’s faithfulness.

You see, I had been living what I now call “safety net spirituality.” Like Abraham being called to leave his homeland, I thought I was following God’s call. But unlike Abraham who “went, as the LORD had told him” (Genesis 12:4), I had been hedging my bets.

And now? Now I’m experiencing what real faith feels like. Not the comfortable, padded faith I had before, but the kind that makes your heart race and your spirit soar. The kind that actually gives God room to show up in spectacular ways.

This isn’t just about losing backup plans – it’s about gaining something far more precious: authentic trust in a faithful God. It’s about discovering that when Jesus said “No one can serve two masters” (Matthew 6:24), He was offering us freedom, not restriction.

You want to know the most amazing part? As each safety net has fallen away, I’ve found something solid underneath – not the shifting sands of my own planning, but the unshakeable foundation of God’s faithfulness.

I’m learning that true faith isn’t the absence of fear – it’s the presence of trust even when fear is screaming in your ear. It’s not about being reckless; it’s about being real with God and ourselves about where we’re placing our trust.

And here’s what I want to share with you: There’s an indescribable peace that comes when you finally stop trying to be your own backup plan. When you realize that maybe, just maybe, God allowed your safety nets to fall so you could experience His catching arms.

This journey isn’t over. Every day brings new opportunities to choose trust over safety, faith over fear. But now I know – really know – what it means to trust with ALL my heart, not just the parts that don’t have a backup plan.

So I ask you, friend: What safety nets are you clinging to? What would it look like to trust God so completely that you don’t need Plan B?

But here’s the real question that’s been haunting me – the one that changed everything:

Is faith really faith if you’re always developing a backup plan?

After everything I’ve experienced, after watching every safety net dissolve and finding God’s faithfulness even stronger underneath, I can tell you with absolute certainty – no, it’s not.

Real faith, the kind that moves mountains and transforms lives, doesn’t need a Plan B. Because genuine faith understands that God’s Plan A is greater than all our backup plans combined.

So maybe it’s time to let go of those safety nets. Not because it’s easy, but because it’s freeing. Because true faith isn’t faith until it’s all we’re holding onto.

And trust me – when you finally release those backup plans, you’ll discover what I’m learning every day: God is far more faithful than any safety net we could ever design.

Finding Freedom in God’s Definition

by Joseph | Feb 14, 2025 | Sharing

“The Lord was with Joseph so that he prospered, and he lived in the house of his Egyptian master.” – Genesis 39:2

How often do we find ourselves trapped in prisons not made of stone? Joseph’s story echoes through time, speaking to every heart that has felt bound by others’ expectations, limited by circumstances, or defined by roles we didn’t choose. Like many of us, Joseph’s journey from favored son to slave to prisoner to prince wasn’t a straight path to freedom – it was a winding road of discovering who he truly was in God’s eyes.

Consider Joseph in Potiphar’s house. Once the beloved son wearing a coat of many colors, he now wore the garments of a slave. From the pit his brothers threw him in to the foreign land where he served, Joseph could have lost himself in others’ definitions of who he was. A slave. A foreigner. A servant. Yet scripture tells us something remarkable: “The Lord was with Joseph.” (Genesis 39:2)

Even in bondage, Joseph’s spirit remained free enough to excel, to serve with excellence, to maintain his integrity. When tempted by Potiphar’s wife, he remained true to his God-given identity rather than succumbing to others’ expectations or desires. “How then could I do such a wicked thing and sin against God?” (Genesis 39:9)

But freedom of spirit doesn’t mean freedom from trials. Joseph found himself thrown into prison on false charges, adding physical chains to the emotional ones he already bore. Yet even there, scripture notes, “But while Joseph was there in the prison, the Lord was with him; he showed him kindness and granted him favor in the eyes of the prison warden.” (Genesis 39:20-21)

Like Joseph, we often find ourselves in situations where we feel bound by obligations, expectations, and the constant pressure to provide and perform. We might feel like we’re merely existing, going through motions, living up to others’ definitions of who we should be. The weight of being everything to everyone can feel as confining as prison walls.

Yet Joseph’s story teaches us a profound truth: our circumstances don’t define us – God does. Even in prison, Joseph remained attuned to God’s voice, interpreting dreams and serving others. He didn’t let his chains – physical or metaphorical – silence his gift or dampen his spirit. “Do not interpretations belong to God?” (Genesis 40:8)

When Joseph finally stood before Pharaoh, it wasn’t his prison identity that spoke – it was his God-given spirit. “I cannot do it,” Joseph replied to Pharaoh, “but God will give Pharaoh the answer he desires.” (Genesis 41:16) In this moment, Joseph demonstrated complete freedom from others’ definitions, standing confidently in who God made him to be.

The journey from pit to palace wasn’t just about physical elevation – it was about Joseph maintaining his true identity regardless of circumstances. When he finally revealed himself to his brothers, he spoke from a place of spiritual freedom: “You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.” (Genesis 50:20)

Like Joseph, we are called to find our definition not in our circumstances, obligations, or others’ expectations, but in God’s purpose for our lives. “For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” (Ephesians 2:10)

The freedom to sing, pray, and live authentically doesn’t come from the absence of responsibilities – Joseph had more responsibilities as Egypt’s governor than he ever had as a slave. True freedom comes from knowing whose we are, regardless of where we are. It’s about finding our identity in God’s definition of us, not in the roles others assign.

Prayer: Father, like Joseph, help me find my true identity in You, not in the expectations and definitions others place upon me. Give me the courage to let my spirit soar even when circumstances feel confining. Help me remember that You are with me, just as You were with Joseph, and that Your definition of me supersedes all earthly demands. Grant me the wisdom to fulfill my responsibilities while maintaining the freedom of spirit that comes from knowing I am Yours. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Choosing Your Circle Wisely: A Lesson from Solomon’s Journey

by Joseph | Jan 24, 2025 | Sharing

Few stories in Scripture illustrate the profound impact of our associations more powerfully than that of King Solomon. Here was a man who began with extraordinary wisdom, so much so that “men came from all peoples to hear the wisdom of Solomon, from all the kings of the earth who had heard of his wisdom” (1 Kings 4:34, NAS). Yet even Solomon, the wisest man who ever lived, eventually fell prey to the influence of those he surrounded himself with.

“As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another” (Proverbs 27:17, NAS). Ironically, Solomon himself wrote these words, yet his life would become a cautionary tale about the transformative power of our associations. In his early years, surrounded by godly advisors and focused on building the temple, Solomon’s wisdom flourished. But as he accumulated foreign wives who “turned his heart away after other gods” (1 Kings 11:4, NAS), even his legendary wisdom couldn’t withstand the daily influence of those who pulled him away from truth.

This profound lesson becomes especially relevant as we consider our own journey of preparedness. In a world that often mocks readiness and dismisses careful planning, the people we surround ourselves with can either strengthen our resolve or slowly erode our determination. Solomon’s story teaches us that no amount of knowledge or wisdom can compensate for the subtle influence of those closest to us.

Consider the contrast in Solomon’s life. Early in his reign, when he surrounded himself with those who supported his divine purpose, he accomplished the magnificent task of building the temple. His wisdom attracted seekers of truth from across the nations. But later, when he allowed his inner circle to be dominated by those with different values and priorities, even the wisest man in history found his judgment compromised.

This pattern repeats throughout Scripture. When we look at successful preparation, we rarely find lone wolves. Moses had Aaron and Hur to hold up his arms during battle (Exodus 17:12). David had his mighty men. Even Jesus, in His earthly ministry, gathered twelve disciples around Him. The lesson is clear: significant preparation and purpose require a supportive community, but that community must be chosen with wisdom.

Let me share three essential principles for building a positive circle of preparation:

1. Guard Your Inner Circle Solomon’s decline began not with outright rebellion but with gradual compromise in his closest relationships. “Do not be deceived: ‘Bad company corrupts good morals'” (1 Corinthians 15:33, NAS). In your preparation journey, be intentional about who has the closest access to your heart and mind.
2. Seek Those Who Strengthen Your Convictions Early in his reign, Solomon surrounded himself with those who supported his mission to build the temple. These relationships reinforced his godly purpose rather than undermining it. “The one who walks with wise men will be wise” (Proverbs 13:20, NAS). Look for people whose presence strengthens your commitment to preparation and wisdom.
3. Build Relationships Around Shared Values Solomon’s foreign wives brought their gods with them, creating competing values within his own household. In your preparation community, seek those who share your core values and understanding of the times. “Can two walk together unless they are agreed?” (Amos 3:3, NAS).

The practical application of these principles requires discernment and courage:

1. Evaluate Current Influences Take an honest inventory of your current associations. Are they strengthening or weakening your preparation efforts? Are they building up your resolve or eroding it?
2. Make Necessary Adjustments Sometimes, like Solomon should have done, we need to lovingly but firmly adjust the level of influence certain people have in our lives. This isn’t about rejection but about wise boundaries.
3. Actively Seek Positive Connections Look for those who demonstrate wisdom in preparation without panic, who approach readiness with hope rather than fear, who balance practical action with spiritual insight.

Remember, Solomon’s decline didn’t happen overnight. It was the gradual result of daily influences that slowly pulled him away from his original wisdom and purpose. Similarly, our preparation efforts can be gradually strengthened or weakened by those we spend time with.

The beauty of building a positive preparation circle is that it creates mutual support. When one person’s strength fails, others can step in. When one person’s resources run low, others can share. When one person’s wisdom is challenged, others can provide perspective. “Two are better than one because they have a good return for their labor. For if either of them falls, the one will lift up his companion” (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10, NAS).

As you continue your journey of preparation, let Solomon’s story inspire you to choose your associations wisely. Are they strengthening your resolve or weakening it? Are they contributing wisdom or spreading fear? Are they encouraging action or promoting paralysis?

Remember that even the wisest among us need the support and accountability of like-minded companions. Solomon’s story isn’t just a warning about negative influences; it’s a call to actively seek and maintain relationships that strengthen our commitment to wisdom and preparation.

“Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken” (Ecclesiastes 4:12, NAS). Let this ancient wisdom, written by Solomon himself in better days, guide you as you build your circle of preparation, knowing that in the right community, we find strength, wisdom, and hope for the journey ahead.

Standing Firm When Your Preparation Seems Foolish

by Joseph | Jan 22, 2025 | Sharing

Have you ever felt that deep, unsettling loneliness that comes when you’re following a call to prepare, but those around you just can’t see what you see? I’m reminded of Noah, who must have felt this acutely as he built an ark on dry land, enduring years of mockery while constructing a massive vessel for a flood no one believed would come. “By faith Noah, being warned by God about things not yet seen, in reverence prepared an ark for the salvation of his household” (Hebrews 11:7, NAS). His story speaks deeply to those of us who feel compelled to prepare for things others can’t yet see.

I often wonder how Joseph felt in those early days, when he shared his insights about the future while still wearing a shepherd’s cloak. His brothers’ sneering response, “Here comes this dreamer!” (Genesis 37:19, NAS), must have cut deep into his young heart. Yet something within him knew – he had to stay true to what he understood was coming, even when it made him look foolish.

Perhaps you’re there right now. Maybe you’re sensing approaching storms and beginning preparations that seem excessive or unnecessary to others. Whether you’re building spiritual fortifications, developing practical preparations, or following a conviction that seems bizarre to those around you, you’re not alone in this journey. The path of preparation often looks like madness to outside observers.

Let me share three essential anchors that can help us stand firm when our preparations make us look foolish:

1. Root Yourself in Quiet Confidence When others question your sanity or wisdom, remember that meaningful preparation often flows from deep conviction rather than popular opinion. Think about Jeremiah, who purchased land while Jerusalem was under siege – an act that seemed absolutely crazy to everyone watching (Jeremiah 32:6-15). Yet his action flowed from a quiet confidence in what he knew to be true.

“Each person must be fully convinced in his own mind” (Romans 14:5, NAS). This isn’t about stubbornness or pride; it’s about that settled peace that comes from careful consideration and conscience. When doubts creep in (and they will), return to that initial conviction that started you on this journey.

1. Find Strength in Future Focus One of the most powerful ways to stand firm is to keep your eyes fixed on what lies ahead rather than on current criticism. Paul captured this beautifully when he wrote, “While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen; for the things which are seen are temporal, but the things which are not seen are eternal” (2 Corinthians 4:18, NAS).

Consider how Noah must have focused on the coming rain rather than the daily ridicule. Each plank he nailed, every seam he sealed, was an act of faith in what he understood was coming. When people question your preparations, let their skepticism remind you of why you started preparing in the first place.

1. Build a Foundation of Wisdom and Discernment Standing firm requires more than just determination – it requires wisdom. “But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously and without reproach” (James 1:5, NAS). This means:

• Regularly examining your motives and methods
• Staying open to guidance and correction
• Maintaining balance in your preparation efforts
• Being willing to adjust your approach while staying true to your core conviction

In practice, this might look like developing skills others consider irrelevant, storing resources when abundance seems endless, or building spiritual disciplines in a pleasure-seeking culture. Whatever form your preparation takes, remember that you’re in good company. History is filled with people who looked foolish until time proved them wise.

I’m particularly moved by how Joseph handled his time of preparation. Through slavery and imprisonment, he didn’t just wait passively – he developed skills and wisdom that would later save nations. While others saw a prisoner, he was becoming a leader. While they saw punishment, he was in preparation.

The reality is, meaningful preparation often looks like destruction to outside observers. When you’re being positioned for future purpose, the process may appear as dismantling rather than construction. Just as a sculptor must remove excess stone to reveal the masterpiece within, thorough preparation often involves stripping away what others consider essential.

Remember, Noah wasn’t crazy; he was prepared. Jeremiah wasn’t foolish; he was forward-thinking. Joseph wasn’t delusional; he was discerning. Your commitment to preparation, regardless of how it appears to others, positions you to help both yourself and others in times of need.

Take heart in knowing that the apparent madness of your preparation may become a badge of honor rather than a source of shame. Today’s foolishness may be tomorrow’s wisdom, and current ridicule may be preparing the way for future provision. Stand firm in your conviction, maintain your focus in preparation, and let time validate your foresight.

“But the path of the righteous is like the light of dawn, that shines brighter and brighter until the full day” (Proverbs 4:18, NAS). Keep walking your path of preparation, dear friend. The dawn will break, and your preparation will prove its worth.

Your Face Like Flint: Unwavering Faith in Turbulent Times

by Joseph | Jan 7, 2025 | Sharing

In the prophetic words of Isaiah, we find an extraordinary image of unshakeable determination: “I have set my face like flint, and I know that I will not be ashamed” (Isaiah 50:7). This powerful metaphor—face like flint—speaks of a hardness that refuses to be scratched, a resolution that cannot be worn down. It’s not about stoic indifference or cold hardheartedness, but rather about maintaining an unwavering focus on God’s purposes despite the storms that rage around us.

Consider Joseph in Egypt, whose face must have been like flint indeed. Sold into slavery, falsely accused, imprisoned unjustly—yet through it all, his countenance remained fixed on the divine purpose that would eventually unfold. “But the Lord was with Joseph and extended kindness to him, and gave him favor in the sight of the chief jailer” (Genesis 39:21). This wasn’t mere positive thinking or stubborn determination; it was a spiritual resilience forged in the furnace of adversity.

In our current age of uncertainty, where the foundations seem to shake daily, this quality of flint-faced resilience has never been more crucial. We live in times where faith is tested not just by dramatic persecutions, but by the subtle erosion of constant pressure—much like Joseph’s experience in Potiphar’s house, where day after day, he faced temptation and maintained his integrity: “How then could I do this great evil and sin against God?” (Genesis 39:9).

The concept of setting one’s face like flint implies a conscious decision, a deliberate positioning of oneself. It’s not a passive state but an active stance. When Jesus “resolutely set His face to go to Jerusalem” (Luke 9:51), He wasn’t merely traveling—He was aligning Himself with the Father’s purpose, knowing the cross lay ahead. This kind of determination doesn’t deny the reality of pain or struggle; rather, it transcends them through unwavering trust in God’s sovereign plan.

Joseph’s journey provides a masterclass in this kind of resilience. In the depths of an Egyptian prison, he didn’t just survive—he thrived. “The chief jailer committed to Joseph’s charge all the prisoners who were in the jail; so that whatever was done there, he was responsible for it” (Genesis 39:22). Even in the darkness of confinement, his face remained set like flint toward the light of God’s faithfulness.

But here’s where many devotionals miss the mark: this flint-faced resilience isn’t about personal strength or willpower. It’s about becoming a living testimony to God’s sustaining grace. When Joseph finally stood before his brothers years later, he didn’t speak of his own resilience but of God’s sovereignty: “As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good in order to bring about this present result, to preserve many people alive” (Genesis 50:20).

Consider the metallurgical properties of flint: it’s not just hard; it’s capable of producing sparks when struck. Similarly, our resilience in trials shouldn’t just be about enduring—it should ignite hope in others. Joseph’s steadfastness didn’t just preserve his own faith; it became the means through which entire nations were saved from famine.

The contemporary application is profound. We face:

• Economic uncertainties that threaten our security
• Social upheavals that challenge our values
• Global tensions that shake our peace
• Personal trials that test our faith

Yet like flint, we’re called to maintain our facing, our orientation toward God’s purposes. “Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your toil is not in vain in the Lord” (1 Corinthians 15:58).

This steadfastness manifests in several key ways:

1. Unmoved by Circumstantial Pressure: Just as Joseph remained faithful in Potiphar’s house despite daily temptation, we’re called to maintain our integrity even when compromise seems expedient.
2. Sustained Through Extended Trials: Joseph’s imprisonment wasn’t a brief setback but a prolonged season of testing. Yet his face remained set like flint, trusting God’s timing and purpose.
3. Focused on Divine Purpose: “Let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, fixing our eyes on Jesus” (Hebrews 12:1-2). Our resilience isn’t about stubborn self-will but about maintaining focus on God’s greater purpose.

What makes this particularly relevant today is the nature of our trials. We’re not just facing isolated challenges but interconnected crises that test our resilience on multiple fronts simultaneously. Like Joseph, we need a resilience that can withstand both acute crises and chronic pressures.

The beauty of the flint metaphor lies in its practical application. Flint doesn’t become harder through use—it’s inherently hard. Similarly, our resilience doesn’t come from building up our own strength but from being grounded in God’s unchanging nature. “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever” (Hebrews 13:8).

This brings us to a crucial insight: resilience isn’t about becoming impervious to pain or difficulty. Joseph wept when he saw his brothers; Jesus wept at Lazarus’s tomb. Having a face like flint doesn’t mean becoming emotionless—it means maintaining our orientation toward God’s purposes despite our emotions.

Consider how Joseph’s resilience was tested not just in adversity but in prosperity. When he rose to power in Egypt, he maintained his spiritual focus. This is crucial for us today, as trials can come in the form of success as much as failure. “For I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am” (Philippians 4:11).

The call to set our faces like flint is ultimately a call to profound trust in God’s character. It’s about maintaining an unwavering focus on His faithfulness when everything around us suggests otherwise. Like Joseph in the pit, in Potiphar’s house, in prison, and in the palace, we’re called to maintain our spiritual orientation regardless of circumstances.

As we navigate our own turbulent times, let us remember that flint-faced resilience isn’t about never falling—it’s about maintaining our facing toward God even when we do. It’s about getting up again, realigning our focus, and continuing to trust in His sovereign purpose. “Though a righteous man falls seven times, he will get up” (Proverbs 24:16).

May we, like Joseph, maintain faces like flint, not in rigid inflexibility, but in unwavering trust in the God who works all things together for good. Let our resilience be a testimony not to our own strength, but to the unfailing faithfulness of the God we serve.

Leadership in Times of Crisis: Lessons from Joseph

by Joseph | Dec 28, 2024 | Sharing

In an era where uncertainty seems to be our constant companion, where global challenges emerge with startling frequency, and where leadership often appears to falter, the biblical account of Joseph speaks with remarkable relevance. His story isn’t just about colorful coats and dramatic family reconciliations—it’s a masterclass in divinely appointed leadership during times of unprecedented crisis.

Joseph’s journey from the pit to the palace wasn’t a simple rags-to-riches tale. It was God’s strategic positioning of a leader who would save not only Egypt but the known world from catastrophic famine. “Now do not be grieved or angry with yourselves, because you sold me here, for God sent me before you to preserve life” (Genesis 45:5). This profound understanding that God had orchestrated his path, despite its painful twists and turns, became the foundation of his leadership approach.  Have you questioned the difficulties you face and wondered if God was using the tough times to prepare you for something unique and important?

Consider the modern parallels: We face potential food insecurity, economic instability, climate challenges, and social upheaval. Like the seven years of plenty and seven years of famine in Joseph’s time, we see cycles of abundance and scarcity. The question isn’t whether challenges will come—it’s whether we have leaders positioned and prepared to navigate through them.

What set Joseph apart was his divine appointment. “Can we find a man like this, in whom is the Spirit of God?” Pharaoh asked his servants (Genesis 41:38). Joseph’s leadership wasn’t born from political maneuvering or social climbing. It came from God’s sovereign placement and the spiritual wisdom that accompanied it. When Pharaoh sought understanding for his troubling dreams, Joseph’s response was telling: “It is not in me; God will give Pharaoh a favorable answer” (Genesis 41:16).

This humility, combined with divine enabling, became the cornerstone of Joseph’s administrative genius. He implemented a systematic approach to resource management that would make modern economists take note: “Let Pharaoh take action to appoint overseers in charge of the land, and let him exact a fifth of the produce of the land of Egypt in the seven years of abundance” (Genesis 41:34).

Today’s leaders would do well to note that Joseph’s preparation wasn’t reactive—it was proactive. He didn’t wait for the crisis to hit before developing solutions. During the years of plenty, he was already building infrastructure for the years of lack. “Joseph gathered all the food of these seven years which occurred in the land of Egypt and placed the food in the cities” (Genesis 41:48).

But here’s where Joseph’s story becomes particularly relevant for our times: His leadership wasn’t just about stockpiling resources—it was about creating systems that would sustain communities through crisis. The distribution system he established wasn’t based on favoritism or political allegiance but on need and wise stewardship. “The people of all the earth came to Egypt to buy grain from Joseph, because the famine was severe in all the earth” (Genesis 41:57).

Consider the implications for modern leadership. We need leaders who:

1. Recognize Divine Appointment: “And those whom He predestined, He also called” (Romans 8:30). True leadership begins with understanding that our position is a divine trust, not a personal achievement.
2. Lead with Spiritual Wisdom: “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously and without reproach” (James 1:5). Joseph’s interpretation of dreams wasn’t mere intuition—it was divine insight applied to practical problems.
3. Plan Systematically: The seven years of abundance required as much leadership as the seven years of famine. “Prepare your work outside and make it ready for yourself in the field; afterwards, then, build your house” (Proverbs 24:27).
4. Build Sustainable Systems: Joseph’s leadership created structures that outlasted the immediate crisis. “The land became Pharaoh’s. As for the people, he removed them to the cities from one end of Egypt’s border to the other” (Genesis 47:20-21).

The application for today’s world is clear: We need leaders who can see beyond the immediate horizon. The challenges we face—whether environmental, economic, or social—require Joseph-like wisdom to build sustainable solutions. This isn’t about fearful hoarding or panic-driven responses. It’s about wise stewardship and divine preparation.

Joseph’s story reminds us that true leadership isn’t about personal advancement but about being positioned by God to serve others through crisis. His elevation to leadership wasn’t for personal glory but for preservation of life. “For God sent me before you to preserve for you a remnant in the earth, and to keep you alive by a great deliverance” (Genesis 45:7).

What’s particularly striking about Joseph’s leadership is how he maintained his spiritual integrity while operating in a secular environment. He didn’t compromise his faith while serving in Pharaoh’s court. Instead, he allowed his faith to inform his administrative decisions. This is a crucial lesson for believers in leadership positions today—one can serve in secular institutions while remaining true to godly principles.

The challenges of our time call for Joseph-like leaders who can:

• Interpret the signs of the times with divine wisdom
• Implement systematic solutions with practical application
• Maintain spiritual integrity while serving in secular contexts
• Build systems that serve the common good
• Lead with both compassion and competence

As we face our own seasons of plenty and scarcity, the call to leadership remains the same. God is still in the business of positioning people strategically for times of crisis. The question is: Will we recognize our divine appointments and step into them with the same wisdom, courage, and systematic approach that Joseph demonstrated?

“For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance will arise from another place… And who knows whether you have not attained royalty for such a time as this?” (Esther 4:14). Though spoken in a different context, these words echo the truth of Joseph’s story—God positions leaders strategically for times of crisis.

As we close, consider this: Joseph’s preparation for crisis didn’t begin when he interpreted Pharaoh’s dreams. It began in the pit, continued in Potiphar’s house, and was refined in prison. Each stage was preparation for the leadership role that lay ahead. Similarly, our current challenges and positions might be God’s preparation for greater responsibility in times of crisis.

The call to leadership in times of crisis isn’t just for those in high positions. Like Joseph, we may find ourselves positioned “for such a time as this”—whether in business, government, education, or community leadership. The question is: Will we recognize God’s positioning, embrace His wisdom, and implement systematic solutions for the challenges ahead?

Love’s Labor: The Sacred Call to Prepare for Others

by Joseph | Dec 22, 2024 | Sharing

“Greater love has no one than this, that one lay down his life for his friends.” – John 15:13 (NASB)

The stars pierced Egypt’s night sky as Joseph stood alone atop a newly constructed granary. Below him stretched the shadows of other storehouses, each filled with grain that could have been sold for immediate profit. In the distance, the lights of celebrating Egyptians flickered—people enjoying their prosperity, unaware of the approaching shadow of famine. In this moment of solitude, did Joseph remember his father’s aging face? Did his brothers’ children flash through his mind as he supervised another day of storing grain instead of selling it?

This scene, though not explicitly recorded in Scripture, captures the heart of preparatory sacrifice—choosing to forgo immediate comfort for the sake of others’ future survival. It’s a theme that echoes through the stories of God’s greatest servants, each of whom chose to bear present burdens so others might have future hope.

The Hidden Cost of Love

“Love is patient, love is kind… it does not seek its own…” – 1 Corinthians 13:4-5 (NASB)

Consider Jeremiah, who purchased land on the eve of Jerusalem’s destruction—not for himself, but as a testimony of future restoration for generations he would never see. Think of Noah, who labored for decades building an ark, sacrificing his reputation and resources not just for his family, but for the preservation of all living creatures.

Joseph’s story particularly illuminates this sacrificial preparation. During seven years of plenty, he could have amassed personal wealth. Instead, he chose to live simply, focusing all resources on preparation for a famine others couldn’t see. His sacrifice wasn’t just about storing grain—it was about storing hope.

When Love Looks Like Madness

“For if we are beside ourselves, it is for God; if we are of sound mind, it is for you.” – 2 Corinthians 5:13 (NASB)

The world often misunderstands sacrificial preparation. Noah’s neighbors surely thought him mad as he built an ark under clear skies. Joseph’s contemporary administrators likely questioned the extent of his storage programs during abundance. Even today, those who sacrifice present comfort for future provision may face questioning looks and concerned whispers.

But love often appears foolish to those who don’t share its vision. When Mary broke her alabaster jar of perfume over Jesus’ feet, some called it waste. When the widow gave her last coins, others might have called it irresponsible. Yet Jesus saw in both actions the beautiful geometry of sacrifice—love creating space for miracle.

The Generational Vision

“A good man leaves an inheritance to his children’s children.” – Proverbs 13:22 (NASB)

There’s a profound moment in Joseph’s story that’s easy to miss. When his brothers finally came seeking grain, they didn’t just represent themselves—they carried the weight of their children’s hungry eyes and their wives’ worried faces. Joseph’s years of preparation suddenly became personal. Every grain of wheat he had stored now held the power to preserve not just strangers, but the very family that had once rejected him.

This reveals preparation’s deeper purpose. We prepare not just for ourselves, but for generations. Like Abraham journeying to an unseen land for descendants yet unborn, our sacrifices today carve paths of provision for tomorrow’s travelers.

The Sacred Mathematics of Sacrifice

“Unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it bears much fruit.” – John 12:24 (NASB)

Joseph understood a divine principle: that preservation requires sacrifice. Each bushel of grain stored meant less profit today. Each new granary built meant resources diverted from immediate pleasure. Yet these sacrifices operated on God’s multiplication principle—what is surrendered in love often returns multiplied in impact.

This same principle echoed through history. Moses sacrificed palace privilege to preserve his people. Esther risked her life to save her nation. Each understood that love’s greatest expressions often require love’s deepest sacrifices.

The Heart’s Preparation

“But Daniel made up his mind that he would not defile himself…” – Daniel 1:8 (NASB)

Physical preparation without heart preparation is merely hoarding. What set Joseph apart wasn’t just his administrative skill—it was his prepared heart. Years of personal betrayal and hardship had cultivated in him a spirit capable of seeing beyond personal vengeance to divine purpose.

This teaches us that true preparation begins within. Like Daniel purifying his heart in Babylon, or David developing his character in the wilderness, our greatest preparation may be the internal work of surrendering bitterness for love, fear for faith, and self-preservation for sacrificial service.

Love’s Labor Now

“Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in your power to do it.” – Proverbs 3:27 (NASB)

Today’s prosperity is tomorrow’s provision waiting to be preserved. The resources we steward now—our time, energy, finances, skills—aren’t just for present comfort but for future care of those God entrusts to us. This might mean:

• Choosing simpler living to create resource reserves
• Developing skills that could serve others in crisis
• Building relationships that could become support networks
• Storing provision with a generous spirit

Prayer for Sacrificial Hearts

Father of all provision, give us Joseph’s vision to see beyond today’s comfort to tomorrow’s need. Grant us the courage to sacrifice present ease for future preservation. Help us prepare not from fear but from love, not for self but for service. May our hearts be as prepared as our storehouses, ready to distribute with wisdom and grace when the time comes. Shape us into vessels of Your provision for our families and communities. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

“Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.” – Philippians 2:4 (NASB)

Remember: Your sacrifices today are love letters to tomorrow’s needs. Like Joseph, your willingness to prepare despite misunderstanding may become the miracle someone else is praying for. In God’s economy, no act of love is ever wasted—especially the love that looks ahead and prepares the way for others.

“And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that having all sufficiency in all things at all times, you may abound in every good work.” – 2 Corinthians 9:8 (NASB)

Leading Through the Storm: Lessons from Joseph’s Divine Authority

by Joseph | Dec 16, 2024 | Sharing

Like many people, I have often battled with life’s challenges.  I’ve struggled at times to embrace what I believe is God’s call and assignment – and I’ve often questioned my own abilities to handle the positions I’ve been entrusted.  It’s been encouraging to study and understand how Joseph handled his Divine assignment.

In times of crisis, true leadership emerges not from titles or position, but from divine preparation and positioning. Perhaps no biblical account illustrates this more powerfully than Joseph’s rise to authority in Egypt. Here was a young Hebrew slave, suddenly elevated to become second only to Pharaoh himself. “You shall be over my house, and according to your command all my people shall do homage” (Genesis 41:40).

But what caught Pharaoh’s attention wasn’t just Joseph’s ability to interpret dreams – it was the spirit of divine wisdom that flowed through his leadership. “Then Pharaoh said to his servants, ‘Can we find a man like this, in whom is the Spirit of God?'” (Genesis 41:38). This reveals our first crucial insight: true authority flows from God’s presence in our lives, not from our own capabilities.

Consider the extraordinary transition. One day, Joseph was a prisoner; the next, he held the keys to Egypt’s survival. “See, I have set you over all the land of Egypt. Then Pharaoh took off his signet ring from his hand and put it on Joseph’s hand, and clothed him in garments of fine linen” (Genesis 41:41-42). This wasn’t just a promotion – it was a divine positioning for purpose.

The Foundation of Divine Authority

Notice what preceded Joseph’s elevation. Through years of betrayal, slavery, and imprisonment, God was building character that could handle crisis-level authority. “Until the time that his word came to pass, the word of the Lord tested him” (Psalm 105:19). Leadership capacity is forged in the furnace of trials.

Joseph’s response to his sudden authority reveals several crucial leadership principles:

1. He immediately took action: “Then Joseph went out from the presence of Pharaoh and went through all the land of Egypt” (Genesis 41:46). True leaders don’t wait for perfect conditions – they move with purpose and urgency.
2. He implemented systematic solutions: “Let them gather all the food of these good years that are coming and store up the grain” (Genesis 41:35). Vision without organization is just dreaming.
3. He thought beyond the immediate crisis: “The food shall be as a reserve for the land for the seven years of famine” (Genesis 41:36). Leaders must see beyond current circumstances to prepare for future challenges.

Embracing Full Authority

One of the most striking aspects of Joseph’s leadership was his complete embrace of the authority given to him. He didn’t shrink back with false humility or hesitate with self-doubt. When Pharaoh said, “Without your permission no one shall raise his hand or foot in all the land of Egypt” (Genesis 41:44), Joseph accepted this authority as a divine responsibility.

This teaches us something profound about godly leadership: when God positions us for purpose, false humility can be as dangerous as pride. “For God has not given us a spirit of timidity, but of power and love and discipline” (2 Timothy 1:7).

Leading Through Chaos

When the famine hit, Joseph’s leadership truly shined. “When all the land of Egypt was famished, the people cried out to Pharaoh for bread; and Pharaoh said to all the Egyptians, ‘Go to Joseph; whatever he says to you, you shall do'” (Genesis 41:55).

Notice several key qualities:

1. He remained calm in crisis: There’s no record of Joseph panicking or wavering. His preparation gave him confidence.
2. He administered with wisdom: “Joseph opened all the storehouses” (Genesis 41:56). He didn’t release everything at once but managed resources wisely.
3. He maintained perspective: Even in managing a crisis, he never forgot that he was serving God’s larger purpose: “God sent me before you to preserve life” (Genesis 45:5).

The Divine Pattern of Authority

Joseph’s leadership reveals a pattern for those God calls to lead:

1. Divine Preparation: “The plans of the heart belong to man, but the answer of the tongue is from the Lord” (Proverbs 16:1). God prepares us through experiences we often don’t understand at the time.
2. Divine Positioning: “And who knows whether you have not attained royalty for such a time as this?” (Esther 4:14). God positions us strategically for His purposes.
3. Divine Purpose: “For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand” (Ephesians 2:10).

Taking Full Charge of Divine Assignments

When God gives us an assignment, He also gives us the authority to complete it. Like Joseph, we must:

1. Accept the authority: Don’t minimize or shrink from what God has given you to do.
2. Act decisively: “Whatever you do, do your work heartily, as for the Lord rather than for men” (Colossians 3:23).
3. Administer wisely: Lead with both confidence and humility, knowing the authority comes from God.

The Heart of True Leadership

Joseph’s ultimate success wasn’t just in saving Egypt – it was in fulfilling God’s larger purpose of preserving His people. “You meant evil against me, but God meant it for good in order to bring about this present result, to preserve many people alive” (Genesis 50:20).

This reveals the heart of true leadership: it’s not about our elevation but about God’s purpose. When we embrace divine authority with this perspective, we lead not from position but from purpose.

Let us pray: Father, like Joseph, help us to embrace the full authority You give us for Your purposes. Remove false humility and fear that would hold us back from fully stepping into Your assignments. Grant us wisdom to lead in times of crisis, keeping our eyes fixed on Your larger purpose. Help us to lead with both confidence and humility, knowing that all authority comes from You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Remember: When God gives you an assignment, He also gives you the authority to complete it. Don’t shrink back – step fully into what He has called you to do. Your leadership, like Joseph’s, might be the very means through which God preserves and protects His people in times of crisis.

When Wisdom Looks Like Folly: The Courage to Prepare

by Joseph | Dec 10, 2024 | Sharing

“The wise heart will know the proper time and procedure. For there is a proper time and procedure for every matter.” – Ecclesiastes 8:5-6 (NASB)

Imagine the whispers in Egypt’s marketplaces. Picture the sideways glances and subtle head-shaking as Joseph ordered the construction of yet another granary during a time of unprecedented abundance. “Why store so much when the harvests are plenty?” they must have wondered. “Surely this Hebrew dreamer has lost his mind.”

A thousand years earlier, the same whispers had followed Noah. Year after year, the master shipbuilder labored under cloudless skies, constructing an ark for a flood no one could imagine. Century after century, this story of steadfast preparation would echo through time, speaking to those rare souls who dare to prepare for what others cannot see.

The Loneliness of Divine Foresight

“By faith Noah, being warned by God about things not yet seen, in reverence prepared an ark for the salvation of his household, by which he condemned the world, and became an heir of the righteousness which is according to faith.” – Hebrews 11:7 (NASB)

There’s a unique kind of loneliness that comes with divine foresight. Noah felt it with every hammer stroke that echoed across dry land. Joseph experienced it as he systematically stored grain during years of plenty. Even the prophet Elijah understood it when he declared a drought under clear skies.

These men share a common thread: they acted on God’s wisdom when it appeared foolish to everyone else. Their stories teach us that godly preparation often looks like folly to a world drunk on temporary abundance.

The Weight of Sacred Knowledge

“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.” – Proverbs 9:10 (NASB)

Consider Joseph’s position. God had revealed through Pharaoh’s dreams what no economist could predict: seven years of abundance followed by seven years of devastating famine. This knowledge was both a privilege and a burden. With revelation came responsibility—the responsibility to act while others remained comfortably oblivious.

In our own time, we too may feel the weight of understanding seasons. When God opens our eyes to see beyond current prosperity, it carries an obligation to act. Like Joseph, we might find ourselves taking steps that others consider excessive or unnecessary.

The Courage to Look Foolish

“For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.” – 1 Corinthians 1:18 (NASB)

Perhaps the greatest test in preparation isn’t the work itself—it’s enduring the skepticism of others. When Noah built the ark, he wasn’t just constructing a vessel; he was building a testimony. Every plank laid was a declaration of faith in God’s word over popular opinion.

Joseph faced similar challenges. Imagine explaining to Egyptian officials why they needed to systematically store grain during the most prosperous period in memory. His position as Pharaoh’s appointed leader didn’t shield him from questioning glances and doubtful murmurs.

The Hidden Wisdom in Preparation

“But God has chosen the foolish things of the world to shame the wise, and God has chosen the weak things of the world to shame the things which are strong.” – 1 Corinthians 1:27 (NASB)

There’s a profound irony in how God’s wisdom often appears. Noah’s ark seemed unnecessary until the first raindrop fell. Joseph’s granaries looked excessive until the famine began. The five wise virgins’ extra oil appeared wasteful until the bridegroom delayed.

This pattern reveals a crucial truth: Godly preparation often seems excessive until it becomes essential. Like a life insurance policy, its value isn’t apparent until it’s needed. Yet when that moment comes, the difference between those who prepared and those who scoffed becomes stark indeed.

The Prosperity Paradox

“A prudent person foresees danger and takes precautions. The simpleton goes blindly on and suffers the consequences.” – Proverbs 27:12 (NASB)

Here’s a startling insight from Joseph’s story: The greatest threat to preparation isn’t adversity—it’s prosperity. During abundance, preparation looks unnecessary. The marketplaces are full, the crops are plenty, and the future seems secure. Yet it was precisely during Egypt’s most prosperous period that preparation was most crucial.

This paradox speaks powerfully to our time. When markets are strong and shelves are stocked, the call to prepare sounds like paranoia. But prosperity has always been God’s preferred time for preparation. The wise steward knows that abundance is not an invitation to indulgence but an opportunity for preparation.

The Ministry of Preparation

“And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that always having all sufficiency in everything, you may have an abundance for every good deed.” – 2 Corinthians 9:8 (NASB)

What’s often overlooked in these biblical accounts is how personal preparation became public provision. Noah’s ark didn’t just save his family—it preserved the animal kingdom. Joseph’s storehouses didn’t just protect Egypt—they saved surrounding nations, including his own family.

This reveals preparation’s higher purpose: it’s not merely about personal survival but about positioning ourselves to be God’s instruments of provision for others. When we prepare with God’s wisdom, we become part of His supply line in times of scarcity.

The Call to Courageous Preparation

Today, you might feel the gentle nudge of the Holy Spirit calling you to prepare. Like Noah, you might not see storm clouds. Like Joseph, you might be surrounded by abundance. Yet something within you resonates with the call to prepare.

Remember: wisdom often looks like folly until time proves it right. Noah endured decades of mockery before the first raindrop fell. Joseph stored grain for seven years before the famine began. Their vindication came not from human approval but from divine timing.

Prayer for Preparatory Wisdom

Father, grant us the courage of Noah and the wisdom of Joseph. Help us hear Your voice above the crowd’s opinions. Give us strength to prepare when others doubt, and wisdom to steward abundance with eternity in view. May our preparation position us to be instruments of Your provision for others in times of need. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.” – Proverbs 3:5-6 (NASB)

Remember: The same God who vindicated Noah’s building and Joseph’s storing is calling His people to prepare today. Your obedience, though misunderstood now, may become someone else’s miracle tomorrow.