Introduction

Good morning, church family!

Today, we’re diving into an incredible story from Genesis 45, verses 1-15. It’s a tale that portrays the beauty of God's plan for our identity, the example of trusting God set by Joseph, and the power of forgiveness in shaping who we are.

As we embark on this journey today, I'm reminded of a quote by Rick Warren, who said, "You are not an accident. Your birth was no mistake or mishap, and your life is no fluke of nature. Your parents may not have planned you, but God did."

This is a powerful reminder that our identity isn't an accident, but a careful and intentional design by God. But how do we trust this plan, especially in the face of adversity? And how does forgiveness play into all this?

Well, let's find out together. Our Scripture reading for today is Genesis 45:1-15.

[Read passage]

Let us pray.

Dear Heavenly Father, as we explore Your divine design for our identity, guide us to understand and trust Your plan, just like Joseph did. Teach us the power of forgiveness, and how it shapes our true selves. Bless our hearts with Your wisdom and Your love as we delve into Your Word today. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Let’s get started!

God's Plan for Our Identity

Our identity, as believers, is intricately woven into God's divine plan. This plan is not a random occurrence or a result of chance, but a deliberate and purposeful design by our Creator.

The life of Joseph: We can see a clear demonstration of this truth. Joseph, a young man sold into slavery by his brothers, rose to become the second most powerful man in Egypt. His journey was not an easy one, filled with trials and tribulations, but throughout it all, Joseph's identity remained rooted in God's plan.

Not always clear or straightforward: It often involves twists and turns, highs and lows, joys and sorrows. Yet, it is through these experiences that our identity is shaped and molded. Joseph's identity was not defined by his circumstances, whether as a favored son, a slave, a prisoner, or a ruler. Instead, his identity was defined by his relationship with God and his trust in God's plan. Even in the midst of his trials, Joseph remained faithful to God, trusting that God was with him and that God had a purpose for his life.

Not dependent on the opinions or actions of others: Joseph's brothers saw him as a threat and sold him into slavery. Potipar's wife saw him as an object of desire and falsely accused him. Yet, Joseph did not let these perceptions define him. He knew that his identity was not determined by what others thought of him, but by what God thought of him. He understood that he was a child of God, loved and valued by his Creator.

It’s transformative: It changes us from the inside out. When Joseph revealed his identity to his brothers, they were terrified. They expected him to seek revenge for their past actions. However, Joseph had been transformed by God's love and forgiveness. He forgave his brothers and reassured them that what they intended for harm, God intended for good. This transformation was not a result of Joseph's own efforts, but a result of God's work in his life.

It’s purposeful: It is designed to fulfill God's purposes and to bring glory to Him. Joseph's rise to power in Egypt was not for his own benefit, but for the benefit of others. He was able to provide food for his family and the people of Egypt during a severe famine. His position of power was not a sign of his personal success, but a sign of God's provision and care.

Joseph's Example of Trusting God

Joseph's life is an incredible testament to trusting God, even in the face of adversity ... View this full PRO sermon free with PRO