When you allow God to have His way in your life, others won’t be able to recognize you!
Recently, I had the opportunity to speak at a local moms' group. I must admit I was a bit nervous. The truth is, this was the very group I began my journey as a mom. I entered this group when I was a new mom and a new military spouse. I also happened to be extremely shy when I joined this group years ago, only speaking when spoken to and always a bit uncomfortable. Yet, now, here I was preparing to speak to this same group from years ago. Needless to say, when I finished the ladies were surprised, I had become unrecognizable. Something about walking in God's purpose had ignited a confidence they hadn't seen and I must admit, it felt pretty good! The thing is. these ladies had no idea about the private trials of my journey as a ministry leader, writer, speaker, mom, wife, or author, they were only seeing the fruit of God's grace on my life.
This brings me to Joseph in the Bible.
Lately, I have been rereading the story of Joseph. There is something about his story that has always compelled me to ask myself how I would respond to such frustrations. Being betrayed by my siblings, being lied on and thrown in jail, and being forgotten in prison seem unimaginable. Joseph faced many trials that all started with sharing a dream God had given him in Genesis. He had no idea that sharing this dream would take him on an unexpected journey that would land him in a pit and a prison! I have certainly found myself in scenarios where it felt like the more, I shared my desires the more opposition I faced. I have experienced the pain of my expectations not matching my experience. I also know the pain of losing friends, status, and momentum along the way. These moments can make the dream feel like it will never come into fruition. If we aren’t careful, we will allow what we see with our eyes to cheat us out of God’s vision for our lives.
Yet, when I reread Joseph’s story, I was drawn back to what occurs in Genesis 40-42. In Genesis 41, Joseph has just interpreted Pharoah’s dream. Pharoah is so impressed by this young man and how he gives God the credit, that he places Joseph in charge of everything. The Bible records that Pharoah made Joseph second in charge of Egypt, gave him a signet ring, dressed him in fine linen, gave him a wife, and granted him authority in Egypt. Joseph’s dream from years ago was finally fulfilled! After years of turmoil, Joseph was walking in God’s promise for him.
It took time, it took tears, it took giving God all the glory, but it happened!
And, when it did, the same people who had betrayed Joseph years before, would need his help. I want to pause and show you what happens when Joseph meets his brother.
Although Joseph recognized his brothers, they did not recognize him. Then he remembered his dreams about them… Genesis 42:8-9
My friends, I want to encourage you today that God’s plans for you are not dependent on other people. I find it so interesting that Joseph’s entire life was altered by his brothers yet they didn’t even recognize him!
God had completely changed Joseph’s way of thinking, his environment, and his position! His brothers simply couldn’t recognize the new man Joseph had become. He was no longer the child they dishonored but a man God had elevated. Though Joseph was not actively striving for his childhood dream to come true, his choice to be actively obedient helped him to walk right into God’s plan.
I want to implore you...
Don’t allow your circumstances to dictate how you view God’s plan.
Don’t allow people to dictate how you view God’s plan.
Don’t allow your lack of ability to dictate how you view God’s plan.
Trust that the Lord will be faithful to His word over you.
I am believing that when you do, you will be unrecognizable. Let the fruit of God’s wonderous work in your life speak for you! There is victory in trusting the process and not becoming distracted by other’s opinions.
Let’s pray!
Lord, I thank you for the plans you have for my life. I pray that you will teach me how to trust you. Father, I am often distracted by the way others are blessed. I repent for the moments I have been more focused on other people’s thoughts than what you feel about me. Renew my soul, Lord. Rejuvenate me as I pursue your will for me. Remind me who you’ve called me to be and what you have called me to carry. God, I ask for favor in every area of my life. Help me to remember to give you all the praise and glory in every situation. I love you, Lord, and thank you for your presence in my life. In Jesus name, amen!
For more on living a life of everyday victory, I invite you to purchase my new book Warrior Mother: Equipping Your Heart To Fight For Your Family's Faith or the Victory Walk: A 21 Day Devotional on Amazon today by clicking here. While you await your new book, head over to itunes, Spotify, Youtube or Amazon Music and sing out your victory with my latest single, "God Has Not Forgotten You."
Victoria Riollano is an author, blogger, and speaker. As a mother of eight military spouse, worship leader, Psychology professor, and minister’s wife, Victoria has learned the art of balancing family and accomplishing God’s ultimate purpose for her life. Ultimately, her desire is to empower women to live a life of victory, hope, and love. She believes that with Christ we can live a life that is ALWAYS winning. To book Victoria for speaking or worship, please contact us today!