Joseph has always been one of my favorite people in the Bible because of the way he handled the tough circumstances in his life.  I think we have all been through times where we can identify with Joseph in some way.  We can find the key to getting through these trials and coming out on top, as Joseph did, when we look at the characteristics of his heart that are reflected in each of these trials.

• A Faithful Heart:  When faced with temptation, Joseph declared that he would not sin against his God.  Joseph kept his heart faithful to following God, even when he may not have been caught.  When we keep our heart faithful to God, we can be sure that He will work everything for our good.

• A Forgiving Heart:  I think any of us, when put in Joseph’s situation of being falsely accused, would justify being angry at the one who hurt us.  Our natural inclination would be to sulk, and cry out until justice is done.  Joseph, however, did the opposite; he moved on.  Joseph refused to hold on to bitterness and resentment, and chose instead to continue to work with excellence.

• A Focused Heart:  Finally, we see that Joseph had a heart focused on OTHERS!  Instead of focusing on himself, he focused on others which led him to his encounter with the servants of Pharaoh.  It says that Joseph noticed the dejected look on the baker and the cupbearer; he then cared to ask what was wrong.  Had Joseph only been concerned about himself, he would have never helped the servants and possibly never made it out the prison.  Caring for others is the key to getting out of your prison!

Whatever you are going through, there is a way out!  The key, though, is more about our heart than our actions.  Let the Lord change your heart, and you will be elevated from the prison to the palace!