Meanwhile: Meeting God in the WaitSample

“You can’t keep a good man down.” In those seven words so often quoted, we read the story of Joseph. His emotional constitution was exceptionally stellar. The sterling truth is that you are made of that same character. Your only requirement is a willing heart, and a commitment to integrity and excellence. If you long to walk in the favor and blessing that Joseph experienced, then you, too, must embrace an attitude that shouts loudly, “God is in charge. I will not be shaken!”

It was the Lord who enabled Joseph to prosper at home with his daddy, to be blessed in Potiphar’s house, and to stand as a leader even in prison. It is the Lord who can cause you to prosper as well. Joseph’s story would not be complete without honoring his father, Jacob. The final chapters of Genesis are actually a tribute to Joseph’s father. Such is the story of each one of us. Our life stories do not stand on their own but we are products of all who came before us and we will leave a legacy for generations yet to come. During the closing hours of Jacob’s extraordinary life, he worshipped the Lord with his dying breath. His enduring legacy for succeeding generations would be one of genuine worship.

I just love Jacob’s resolve to enthusiastically live every single moment given to him. Jacob collected his waning strength so he could spend a few last minutes with Joseph and his two sons. My friend, don’t die before you take your dying breath. Strengthen yourself in the Lord and walk fully engaged in the life God has given you. I have often said I am determined to cross my finish line sweaty not rusty.

Jacob spent the final minutes of his life speaking a benediction over the next generation. He refused to die a bitter old man or even a disheartened one, but instead, lavished encouragement and prophetic blessing. Believers have no control over every life experience; however, we can respond to unjust circumstances with faith and integrity.

Joseph learned well from his earthly and Heavenly Fathers. At the lowest point in his life, in the strangeness of a foreign land, with no friend and no prospect for release, God initiated the steps that brought about deliverance for Joseph, his family, and the world. Just imagine what miracles God can produce from your situation!