Dear Church Family –
Thanks for another great day in church yesterday! We talked about living Christianly in an UnChristian World, from the example of Joseph in Potiphar’s house in Egypt (Genesis 39). I think it’s worth thinking about again, so here’s a quick recap.
What can we learn from Joseph’s example about how to live for Christ, and represent Christ, and make a difference for Christ in an unChrisitian world?
1. Own it that you are representing Christ in a pagan culture.
Joseph was not really a slave to Potiphar, he was a servant of God, assigned by God, to serve Potiphar. And you and I are not slaves to our cultural times, we are servants of Christ, assigned by Christ, to represent Him in this time and in this place.
“In Time of Trouble Say:
First, He brought me here; it is by His will I am in this narrow place: in that fact I will rest.
Next, He will keep me here in His love, and give me grace to behave as His child.
Then, He will make the trial a blessing, teaching me the lessons He intends me to learn, and working in me the grace He means to bestow.
Last, In His good time He can bring me out again – how and when He knows.
Let me say then, I am here, by God’s appointment, in His keeping. under His training, for His time.” (Andrew Murray)
“There is no ideal place to serve God, except the place where God has placed you.” (Alistair Begg)
“May God find the whine in us no longer. May He find us instead full of spiritual pluck and daring, eager to face anything He brings.” (Oswald Chambers)
“We do not sufficiently realize the power that we have to infect the places in which we live and work by our prevailing habits in those places.” (Oswald Chambers)
2. Maintain the quality of your character.
3. Maintain the quality of your work.
“Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven.” (Matthew 5:16)
“Whatever you do, do your work heartily, as for the Lord rather than for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance. It is the Lord Christ whom you serve.” (Colossians 3:23-24)
4. Say “No.”
“No temptation has overtaken you but such as is common to man; and God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will provide the way of escape also, so that you will be able to endure it.” (1 Corinthians 10:13)
5. Prioritize your relationship with God.
“Draw near to God and He will draw near to you.” (James 4:8)
“Occasionally weep deeply over the life you hoped would be. Grieve the losses. Then wash your face. Trust God. And embrace the life you have.” (John Piper).
Thanks for the light you shine and the difference you make! You’re a joy and blessing.
– Pastor Tim
Comentarios