When the Dream Feels Dead, Trust God’s Timing | Keep Talking

Pastor Tom reminded us today that we may not get to choose what happens to us, but we can always choose how we respond. Joseph’s story teaches us that our most significant growth can actually come in the most difficult situations, when we trust God, stay faithful, and keep moving forward.  

SERMON HIGHLIGHTS

• Joseph never blamed God for what other people did to him.
• He held on to his higher purpose even when it didn’t make sense.
• Joseph chose to honor God with his life no matter his circumstance.
• Joseph trusted God to bring fruit out of pain and promotion out of prison.
• Our circumstances don’t have to define us—our choices can shape our story.
• Five declarations we can make in difficult days:
  • I will not be afraid.
  •  I will not ask why.
  • I will not put my life on hold.
  •  I will get stronger and better.
  •  I will draw closer to God.

KEY SCRIPTURES

• Genesis 39:2, 9, 21
• Genesis 41:16, 39-40
• Genesis 50:20
• Psalm 91:1-2, 14-15
• Hebrews 13:5
• Philippians 1:6
• Romans 8:28
• Philippians 2:13
• Colossians 3:17

START TALKING 

"Everything can be taken from a man but one thing: the last of the human freedoms—to choose one's attitude in any given set of circumstances." - Victor Frankl

When you face challenges, what’s your go-to response? Do you tend to freeze, pull away from God or lean into His presence? 

KEEP TALKING

• Joseph’s story shows us that the Lord was with him—even in betrayal, slavery, and prison. When have you experienced God’s presence in an unlikely place?
• “I will not be afraid.” Read Psalm 91:1-2. How does trusting in God’s protection shift your outlook in uncertain seasons?
• “I will not ask why.” What would it look like to replace the question “Why me?” with “What now?” or “What is God up to that I can be a part of?”
• “I will not put my life on hold.” Joseph continued to serve with excellence even when he didn’t understand the plan. How can you honor God with our excellence that will increase our influence with those around you?
• “I will get stronger and better.” Read James 1:2-4. What spiritual muscle do you feel God is strengthening in you right now?
• “I will draw closer to God.” What does that look like for you this week—in prayer, in the Word, or in worship?

KEEP IT GOING

• Choose one of the five declarations from this week’s message. Write it down. Reflect on it. Speak it over your life this week.

PRAYER

Father, thank you that we are never alone in our trials. Help us be faithful in the difficult times, just like Joseph. When we feel afraid, remind us of your presence. When we’re tempted to ask “Why?”, teach us to trust your purpose. Give us the strength to keep going, the courage to grow, and the desire to draw closer to you each day. We love you and we choose to follow you. Amen.