GraceWay D.C.

In the previous message, Joseph learned to pass the "dream test" by setting aside human ambition and adopting God's goals. Now, in a dramatic turn, he faces the "pit test" of disappointment. Pastor Brad Wells uses this season in Joseph's life to explain why God allows the pit, and to teach how God can use our disappointments to work in and through us. 

In this installment of our series on Joseph's tests, following the "dream test" and the "pit test" of disappointment, he faces the test of duty as a slave in Potiphar's house. In the process, Joseph learned God's definition of prosperity, which comes from God's presence. And God's presence comes from obedience rooted in faith and focus on Him.

This week, GraceWay sought to commemorate the heroism of September 11th, 2001 with a special service and a message from General John Teichert. Bro. Teichert spoke on the heroes whose service causes them to run into danger, including heroes of 9/11, heroes of the faith, and the Hero of humanity, Jesus Christ.

In this installment of our Joseph series, he confronts the test of purity in the face of desire. Joseph will pass this test only as he submits to God his look and lust, learning to live in sanctification. God gives us grace to live the same way today, and to pass our own purity test. This message from Pastor Brad Wells explains how.

In Part 1, Pastor Brad Wells introduced Joseph's fourth test: the test of purity. With persistent temptation trying to eclipse the presence of God, Joseph took a strong stance and aced the test. This week, we learn four imperatives for overcoming: 1) maintain daily strength, 2) believe and speak truth, 3) aggressively escape, and 4) do your part, leaving the rest to God.

Joseph faced the question that has been asked by millions: why do bad things happen to good people? We look at one answer this week in Romans 5. Pastor Brad Wells explains how tribulation (bad things) effects patience, which produces experience, which brings hope, leading to confidence.

Our study of Joseph's tests continues as we are reminded of the power available to us through God's word. We have a part to play in God's plan!

One of the first lessons Joseph learned was what to do when bad things happen to good people. But now, he has received great blessings. Still, he continues to provide a good example of how we should respond to similar circumstances. We must remember that these blessings (1) come and go quickly, (2) they are from God, and (3) they happen as we submit.

In this week's message, we see how God used Joseph and his stewardship to prepare Egypt for difficulty. Whether in times of want or plenty, we are to do three things: work fervently, save frugally, and give faithfully.

Joseph may be best known for his example of beyond-human forgiveness. Don't stay in the dungeon of unforgiveness– Jesus offers a way out!