Walk Faithfully

September 2016 – Grace & Truth Magazine

Walk Faithfully

Joseph, of whom we read in Genesis 30-39, is probably one of the most often used topics for lessons in youth work. His character is one that many of us would like to imitate – displaying qualities of faith already in his teen years amid ridicule from his own family. He remained faithful throughout the many trials of his life, including nearly being put to death, being sold into slavery, being falsely accused, spending years in prison and being generally forgotten.

All that took place was part of a process God ordered that would eventually bring Joseph into a position to present God’s way of salvation to the people of his day regarding an upcoming famine. Connected with this, Joseph was quickly exalted to the second highest position in the land. A few years later his family was brought together again too. There are many blessings, especially heavenly ones, for being faithful to the Lord (Consider Matthew 6:19-21; 1 Peter 1:3-9).

God often uses an object or person to teach about something better. We enjoy Joseph’s faithfulness and take it as an example to follow. But the greater appeal of Joseph is that he is a picture, or “type,” of the Lord Jesus Christ. If you have been reading the magazine for some time you may remember the explanation about types in the June 2013 edition. Simply, types are a form of instruction to reveal and teach us stunning truths.

Therefore, if we take this thought a step farther the deep desire of our heart comes out: If we want to follow Joseph’s example we are really seeking to walk in a manner like the Lord and pleasing to Him. Consider a few thoughts from the apostle Paul: “Be imitators of God as dear children. And walk in love, as Christ also has loved us and given Himself for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet-smelling aroma ... For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light ... See then that you walk circumspectly [carefully], not as fools but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil” (Eph. 5:1-2,8,15-16 NKJV).

Be encouraged, don’t give up: “Let us not grow weary ... do not lose heart” (Gal. 6:9).

By Paul Alberts