Is God With You? Series: Heroes of the Bible:
Joseph (Pastor’s favorite biblical character).
 Genesis 37-45
 Often we think circumstances determine our closeness to God.  When things are going well, we feel He is close but when things are going wrong, we feel He is far away. The life of Joseph reveals that our closeness to God is not determined by our circumstances.  Joseph was sold into slavery by his brothers.  Genesis 39:2: The Lord was with Joseph so that he prospered and he lived in the house of his Egyptian master.   When Joseph was falsely accused by Potiphar’s wife, he was thrown into prison.   Genesis 39:20-21:     But while Joseph was there in the prison, the Lord was with him; He showed him kindness and granted him favor…

Ways to see the closeness of God: (1) Remind yourself that God likes crock pots more than microwave ovens.  Joseph was 17 when his story begins.  He was 30 when he became second in command in Egypt. God’s timing is best.  (2) Remember God loves you and has a plan for you.  Joseph’s words to his brothers in Genesis 45:7-8: But God sent me ahead of you to preserve for you a remnant on earth and to save your lives by a great deliverance. (3) Take time to thank God.  Gratitude changes everything. Satan’s secret sauce is woe is me.

We are to be the best we can be and be known for love and gratitude.  We are to approach each day with gratitude. Sometimes life is difficult but God is good.