By Faith Joseph …

Devotional Reading: Hebrews 11:22 (TPT) “Faith inspired Joseph and opened his eyes to see into the future, for as he was dying he prophesied about the exodus of Israel out of Egypt, and gave instructions that his bones were to be taken from Egypt with them.”

The faith Joseph had, allowed him to see beyond his immediate reality and into God’s promised future for his people. Although Joseph lived and died in Egypt, he trusted that God’s covenant to deliver the Israelites from bondage would be fulfilled. This kind of faith challenges us to look past our current circumstances and trust in God’s long-term plans, even when we cannot yet see them realized.

Joseph’s faith wasn’t limited by the fact that he wouldn’t personally witness the exodus. He believed in God’s promise and acted on it by giving instructions about his bones, showing that true faith trusts God’s timing. In our own lives, this might mean believing in God’s promises even when the fulfillment seems far off or impossible.

A practical example of this kind of faith might be someone who, after years of working toward a goal that seems out of reach, continues to act in faith by preparing for the day God will open the right doors. Their faith propels them forward, trusting that God’s plan is unfolding even when they can’t see it yet.

This kind of faith also takes practical steps. Joseph didn’t just hope for Israel’s deliverance; he made sure that his bones would be a part of it by instructing the Israelites to carry them to the Promised Land. This teaches us that faith is not passive—it requires us to act in alignment with what we believe God will do. For instance, someone trusting God for a breakthrough in their career might start taking classes or building connections, acting in faith toward the future they believe God has promised. Faith prepares for the fulfillment of God’s word, even when the timeline is unclear.

Finally, Joseph’s faith left a legacy. His instructions about his bones were passed down through generations, and his trust in God’s promise was remembered when the Israelites eventually left Egypt. Our faith, like Joseph’s, can influence others and inspire future generations. When we live by faith, trusting in God’s promises, we create a ripple effect that impacts those around us. Whether we see the fulfillment of all our prayers or not, our faith leaves behind a testimony of God’s faithfulness for others to witness.

Prayers and Confession
Father, help me to trust You even when I don’t understand and there is no physical evidence. Help me to believe Your word absolutely and act accordingly in Jesus’ name.

Further Reading: Genesis 50:24-26