A comparative analysis of the life of Joseph an Old Testament type of Christ and the life of Paul in the New Testament ought to teach us a few lessons. In Acts 16:16-end, we can say that just as Joseph honoured God by refusing Potiphar’s wife’s offer and landed in prison, so did Paul and Silas while doing God’s will, rejected the treachery of the demonic spirit tempting them with pride.

Genesis 40 as well as Acts 16:16-end point to the following truths:

• You may have done things right, in God’s will, yet things appear to have gone wrong by the outcomes
• Your response does not change the absolute certainty that God was present and saw the acts and the outcomes; but
• Your choice of attitude towards God responding to the negative outcome matters, and will determine the ultimate manifestation and appreciation of His faithfulness and love towards you.

And particularly for those on the mission field in the unfriendly and life-threatening environment to which you were called to serve, can you continue to do His will using your giftings, carrying out His instructions despite increasing hardships? Joseph did, Paul and Silas did. Can you discipline yourself to substitute praise and prayer for continuing pain? This will remain our challenge until He returns or calls us home.

Both examples spoke of men who were persuaded that God’s plan for their lives cannot be derailed and that things will ultimately always ends up in praise, glory and being brought to His promised place of privilege (See Isaiah 55:6-13; Jeremiah 30:24; Psalm 105:12-19 (NLT) and Psalm 66:5-12 (NIV), note verse 10 in particular!)

Come and see what God has done, his awesome deeds for mankind! He turned the sea into dry land, they passed through the waters on foot—come, let us rejoice in him. He rules forever by his power, his eyes watch the nations—let not the rebellious rise up against him. Praise our God, all peoples, let the sound of his praise be heard; he has preserved our lives and kept our feet from slipping. For you, God, tested us; you refined us like silver. You brought us into prison and laid burdens on our backs. You let people ride over our heads; we went through fire and water, but you brought us to a place of abundance. Psalm 66:5-12 NIV 

What looks like underserved persecution may be the preparation for your elevation. Selah





Pastor Afolabi Oladele