joseph's request

Joseph was a commodity. He was a valuable asset to his brethren, the Ishmaelites, and to Potiphar.

Potiphar's wife represents Satan, in that she sought to strip him of his godly dignity by getting him to submit to His flesh, and when that failed, she sought vengeance. That's the face of the enemy when he can't use us. He looks for those who aren't walking with God, or obedient to God, to turn on us because we refuse his advances.

All of these individuals had arterial motives for their use of Joseph. As decent as we may think Potiphar was, he stood to benefit the most, as a businessman who had the best accountant ever!

God allowed everyone's motives to fly because He had them all as part of His plan. There was a big picture, and they were a part of it. In chess, the pawns are on the table. You cannot play chess without the pawns, so I heard.

Unfortunately, people will try to use you for what is of value to them. Sometimes fellow believers have been known to do the same.

Joseph was a loving commodity for God. God was going to use him to save many lives.

We can allow the world to use us and wring us out dry, or we can give ourselves, our talents, and skill to God for His eternal purposes.

In the account of Joseph in Genesis 40:14 Joseph makes a request. "But remember me when it is well with you, and please show kindness to me; make mention of me to Pharaoh and get me out of this house." This was a reasonable request after having interpreted the chief butler's dream. Not only that, the butler would also get his job back and be restored to Pharaoh's kingdom. Sadly, Joseph is forgotten. Two years go by before the chief butler remembers him. Ouch! You and I would have been infuriated, blowing smoke, and vowing to never help anyone else again.

God's fullness of time has come for Joseph, ending his time in prison. Long story short, despite everything he has gone through, he remains steadfast, faithful and obedient to God. Now the big picture unfolds in a blessed and marvelous way for Joseph.

What request have you been making to the Lord God? Is there a situation you need to get out of? Are you tired of your circumstances and needing an out? Here's the ultimate question. Have you been steadfast, faithful and obedient to the Lord? If the answer is 'yes', just know that the fullness of God's time hasn't come yet. There is a bigger picture and all the players on the table must get their turn on the board. God has not forgotten you. He is preparing you for something connected to your ultimate purpose. If your answer is 'no', confess to the Lord what's kept you from walking right and start right where you're at.  Walk upright before the Lord God. Sit in His presence daily and spend time in prayer. He will guide you and see you through.

Walking in the flesh blocks God's purpose for our lives. Are you willing to walk in the path He has laid out for you even if it means that you will lose friends, a social circle, family members, and opportunities? Are you willing to take up that cross regardless? Or would you rather straddle that fence? Joseph gave himself over to what God allowed. Was it hard for him? Absolutely! Was it burdensome? Absolutely! Did he suffer under the weight of it? Yes! Did he try to run? No! Was he heartbroken and lonely? He was! Did he want out? He certainly did!

Keep trusting God in whatever situation you find yourself in. He is faithful and will deliver you in due time. He heard your request, and He has every intention on delivering you!

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