God's Process

Psalm 105:17-19 - “… Joseph who was sold as a slave, They bruised his feet with fetters and placed is neck in an iron collar. Until the time came to fulfill his dreams, the Lord tested his character.”

My wife has often referred to me as a Joseph. As a boy he received a vision from God about his life but didn't see the fulfillment of that until many years later. My life has mirrored that in a lot of ways. Things don't just happen overnight as God has a process for dreams to become a reality. As a pastor, I often hear people talk about their dreams and desires for their life. They will even tell me about the call of God on their life and how they want to serve God in ministry. But when God doesn't do something in their timetable – they lose hope and the dream begins to wane. Joseph's dreams we're God breathed yet there were some obstacles he would have to deal with in reaching those dreams. There would be opposition from his family. His hopes would be shattered as he was sold into slavery. He would be tempted to follow another path and he would be tested in a vile prison for many years. Yet Joseph didn't give up on God or his dreams. He didn't become bitter or did he shrink back from life. In fact, he just became better. He didn't allow the circumstances and obstacles of life to deter him. He was patient and waited for God to fulfill His word to him. He allowed God to build within him character. Each of us will have to be tested about our dreams and desires. It might not happen when you want to happen but it will happen when you will be able to handle what God gives you. Habakkuk 2:3 “This vision is for a future time. It describes the end, and it will be fulfilled. If it seems slow in coming, wait patiently, for it will surely take place, it will not be delayed!”