AOH Church of God North Alabama Diocesan

Bishop Johnnie L. Woods, Jr. is God’s anointed one. He is a man of God that has a sincere love for God’s People. He began his ministry on July 4, 1976 and is now an esteemed pastor and overseer that is filled with great compassion for God’s People. Pastor Woods evangelizes and travels consistently preaching the glorious gospel of Jesus Christ. Pastor graduated from the AOH Theological Seminary in 1989. He was recognized as Student of the Year in 1988. He is a member of the American Association of Christian Counselors. In the year 2005, he was blessed to obtain a Doctorate of Ministry degree from the Friends International University. His ministry entails salvation as well as education. Bishop Woods became the pastor of Joyful Noise AOH Church of God in June 1985. Because of his great vision, we have been blessed with a beautiful new edifice of worship. Bishop Woods is not only an anointed man of God, but a devout family man. He and his wife, Elder Yolanda Woods, have been married over 40 years. His legacy of ministry has been passed on to his children, of which all are a great asset to his ministry, of which five of them are anointed ministers of the gospel. He is also a beloved grandfather to fourteen grandchildren. Bishop Woods’ personal desire is that men be saved and enjoy abundant living through Jesus Christ. Bishop Johnnie L. Woods, Jr. is a true shepherd that is a concerned watchman of his sheep, with concern for the community and surrounding areas. His Bible fed and spirit led ministry is growing by leaps and bounds. We truly believe that there is no limit to what God can do! “Have you received the Holy Ghost since you believed?” Acts 19:2 Bishop Woods was consecrated bishop in 2013.

AOH Church of God South Alabama Diocesan

Bishop Gregory Lucy, is know to some as “Overseer,” others as an intellectual, community leader, visionary, educator, counselor, and still others as a devoted husband, beloved father, and loyal friend. No matter your point of reference, there are few places you will travel in this area without hearing the name Overseer Gregory Lucy. A native of Dixons Mills, Alabama Overseer Lucy was one of seventeen children born to the late John and Alma Lucy. Gregory Lucy was raised alongside a diverse array of siblings. Many of his childhood experiences nurtured his unique call to the ministry and helped honed his distinct ability to deliver the gospel to reach diverse people of many backgrounds and denominations. As a scholar, Overseer Lucy graduated from Marengo High School and went on to attend Bishop State Community College in Mobile, AL. It is noteworthy to mention that the years Overseer Lucy attended Bishop State, helped distinguish and contributed to his greater accomplishments later in life. Through obtaining a simple work-study job on campus, Overseer Lucy would be taken under the wings of the renowned late Dr. S. D. Bishop, founder and president of Bishop State Community College. Until Overseer Lucy took his leave from Bishop State, Dr. Bishop would play an important role in nurturing and shaping the astute intellectual Gregory Lucy is known as today. Overseer Lucy would later go on to attain a Bachelor of Theology, Th.B. from the International Bible Institute in Plymouth, FL. In 1999 Overseer Lucy received a Bachelor of Science Degree from Concordia College, Selma, AL and in 2002, received a Masters of Education in Administration M.Ed Degree from the University of West Alabama. Certainly a product of the A.O.H. Church of God, Overseer Lucy’s work began early in the church. Under the leadership of the many pastors who ministered in their seasons at the Dixons Mills A.O.H. Church of God, Overseer Lucy remained a steady figure in the church and served in many capacities such as Sunday School Teacher, Secretary of Sunday School, Superintendent, Musician (organist), and Deacon. However, it was after moving to Mobile, AL, while attending the Phillips Temple A.O.H. Church of God under the leadership of Bishop James E. Finely, that Overseer Lucy developed a unique understanding of how the Church was supposed to operate. He continued to serve faithfully at both the Phillips Temple and Dixons Mills A.O.H. Churches wherever there was an avenue for him to serve. During this thirteen-year span, God in his infinite wisdom saw fit to transition, then Deacon Gregory Lucy, into the ministry. In 1986, at the age of thirty, the late Senior Bishop Jasper Roby ordained Overseer Lucy an Elder. After serving as assistant Pastor for two-years under the leadership of Elder Willie Jones, Overseer Lucy accepted his first pastorate at Dixons Mills A.O.H. Church of God appointed by Bishop G. W. Ayers. During this tenure, many changes were made, from many building restorations to significantly increasing the membership of the church. Because of his consistent dedication to God’s work, Overseer Lucy was promoted from an Elder to Assistant Overseer of the 6th District. In 2000 God gave Overseer Lucy a vision to move the church to a new location and build it debt free, which at the time seemed to be a huge task to accomplish. He continually encouraged the members that the new church and location would come to pass without fail stating, “When God gives a vision, he will provide.” On September 29, 2002, the new debt-free church with a seating capacity of six hundred was dedicated and given the new name El Shaddai A.O.H. Church of God. Along with the new edifice, (though some years later) Overseer Lucy founded Gregory Lucy Ministries (GLM). GLM’s primary focus is to: address social needs, and generate independent institutions such as; After School Community Centers, Rehabilitation Facilities, and Private Christian Schools just to mention a few. In March 2006 Overseer Lucy was appointed Overseer of the 22nd District. In June 2011 Overseer Lucy was appointed Bishop-Elect in this great Apostolic Overcoming Holy Church of God. Bishop Lucy continues in the promises that God has given him as he endeavors to nurture a church that goes “beyond the walls,” pursuing an ongoing effort to touch lives with the love of God. It is also his desire that El Shaddai A.O.H Church have a positive and powerful impact on its community bringing hope and uplift in every way possible. “The Lord is truly blessing this church, and HE continues to bless me and I can assure you that if you live for God, He will take care of you.” – Bishop Lucy is the proud husband of 30 years to Lady Phyllis Lucy, a devoted father to Gabriel and Adrienne Lucy and loving grandfather to Brendon L. Lucy. Bishop Lucy was consecrated bishop in 2013.

AOH Church of God South Carolina Diocesan

Bishop Gregory Cannon has been a member of the AOH Church of God since March 11, 1976. I joined the AOH Church under the leadership of Overseer John Thomas at the age of 13 and I have served in many capacities in the church. I served as assistant pastor from 18 years old to age 29 under Overseer John Thomas. I also served as district Youth and Sunday School worker for the South Carolina district until 1998. I served as assistant Overseer until 1998 when I was appointed Overseer. I became a pastor under the leadership of the late Bishop Lemon Bell. I served as Pastor of Victory Temple AOH Church of God from June 1991 to the present. On March 4, 2003 I was appointed to pastor Rice Temple AOH Church of God in Montgomery, Alabama. Bishop Cannon was consecrated bishop in 2007.

AOH Church of God Florida Dicesan

Bishop Qullias Mitchell, Jr. is the husband of one wife, Pastor Denise A. Mitchell, father of five children, and I am blessed to have a host of grand-children. I was born in Tuskegee, Alabama and was raised in Girard, Ohio where I was educated and graduated from the public school system. I served in the United States Marine Corps for twenty years and retired as a gunnery sergeant (E-7). I have attended college at Youngstown State University in Youngstown, Ohio and Pensacola Jr. College in Pensacola, Florida. I have a Bachelor of Biblical Studies degree and a Master of Biblical Counseling from Friends International Christian University. I united with the AOH Church of God in 1980 at the Grace Temple AOH Church of God under the leadership of the late Overseer Joseph Cunningham. In 1982 I moved to Macon, Georgia and served in the church under Bishop Lemon Bell, where I was called into the ministry. From 1987 until 1989, I served as lay minister under the leadership of Overseer Arnold Smith at St. Peters AOH Church of God in Youngstown, Ohio. In June of 1989 I was sent to pastor the Washington Street AOH Church in Cantonment, Florida. In June of 1990 I was sent to pastor the Harris Street AOH Church where I currently serve as pastor. During the past 27 years I have served the church in many different capacities: trustee, deacon, Sunday School teacher, superintendent, and district worker, assistant pastor, and pastor. I also served as praise and worship coordinator for the annual Pentecost meeting and a writer for the Sunday School book. Bishop Mitchell was consecrated bishop in 2007.

AOH Church of God South Alabama Diocesan

Bishop Richard Curtis began his spiritual walk with the Lord on November 20, 1970. He heard the Word of God being preached by the late founder, Bishop W. T. Phillips, urging him to be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ and tarry until he was filled with the Holy Ghost. Accepting this invitation to a new way of living, Bishop Curtis joined Phillips Temple AOH Church of God and was baptized in the name of Jesus Christ. The following week he was filled with the Holy Ghost. Bishop Curtis asked the Lord to give him something to do in the church. Within minutes, he was asked to serve in various capacities in the church. Ever since then, he has worked untiringly in the church. He served faithfully on the deacon board, choir, progressive club, and Sunday School teacher. Bishop Curtis was called into the ministry in 1976 under the leadership of the late Overseer Robert Pace at the Light of the Word AOH Church of God in Pensacola, Florida. He was an associate minister there for approximately one year. On June 10, 1980 he was appointed as pastor of the Saraland AOH Church, where he served for ten years. There he found a little wooden church with a handful of members. Bishop Curtis had a love for the church and community and desired to be a blessing to them. He conducted outdoor services throughout the community and provided summer meals for the neighborhood children. Recognizing his faithfulness and zeal, God added to the church and blessed them to build a new edifice. Bishop Curtis was consecrated bishop in 2007.

AOH Church of God Mississippi, Louisiana, Texas Diocesan

Bishop Jonathan Tate was raised in the Apostolic Overcoming Holy Church of God. His aunt, Reverend Elsie Strutts, raised him. His grandparents were also members of the Pine Hill A.O.H. Church of God. In 1961, he was called into the ministry since that time, his wife, Reverend Sister Shirley Tate, has been by his side spreading the Word of God. In June 1963, he was ordained an Elder and sent from Mobile, Alabama to pastor the 19th Street A.O.H. Church of God in Gulfport, Mississippi. In 1987, he was appointed Overseer over churches in the states of Mississippi, Louisiana, and Texas. In recent years Bishop Tate and the members of the Anointed Temple A.O.H. Church of God purchased over seven acres of land and built a new edifice that accommodates approximately 500 people. Bishop Tate believes in being the leader his entire family, which is comprised of children and their spouses, and grandchildren who are all active members in his church. As Joshua 24:15 says, "As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord." Bishop Tate was consecrated bishop in 2002.

AOH Church of God Tennessee Diocesan

Bishop Jerry Ford was born April 12, 1943 to the late Mr. Jerry Ford, III and Mrs. Charity M. Ford. He is the seventh child of eleven children. His father was a farmer and owned a thirty-acre farm. As a child, Bishop Ford was always a hard worker. He was educated at Council Training High School, in Normal, Alabama. After graduation, he joined the U.S. Army and completed basic training at Fort Jackson, South Carolina, completing his Paratroop training at Fort Benning, GA. He also became a Screening Eagle of 101st Airborne Division. After he was discharged from the army, he joined the Army Reserve. After seven years of Service, he received an Honorable Discharge. He studied the Arts of Embalming Mortuary Science. He is a graduate of the Huntsville Police Academy and University Bible College and Seminary. He received his Th.B. and Th.M degrees from Master' Divinity Graduate School. He met his lovely wife, Miss Willie M. Strong in 1963 and after she graduated from high school, they married. Bishop Ford was pastor of the Macedonia A.O.H. Church of God in Huntsville, AL for nine years. He went to Scottsboro, Alabama in 1990 to pastor Horton Temple A.O.H. Church of God. The Lord blessed the pastor and congregation to pay the church off, buy land for parking, and do substantial remodeling to the edifice. Bishop Ford was pastor of Horton Temple for over seven years. He was also pastor of Athens and Evergreen A.O.H. Churches. In June 1997, he came back to Huntsville to pastor Victory Temple A.O.H. Church of God. God blessed the saints under his leadership. After a year at Victory Temple, Bishop Ford had a greater vision for the church. In 1998, he relocated the church to Drake Avenue and renamed it Greater St. Stephens A.O.H. Church of God, the church he is currently pastor. Bishop Jerry Ford was consecrated bishop in 2002.

AOH Church of God Georgia Diocesan

Bishop Larnie White, Sr. was the ninth child born to Arthur and Essie White, in Worth County, Georgia (a little town seven miles from Sylvester, Georgia) Bishop White proclaims to be saved, sanctified, Holy Ghost filled and fire baptized.He accepted his call into the ministry in 1957. When he found out that his salvation was not complete, he obeyed the scripture in Acts 2:38 and was baptized in the name of Jesus Christ. He kept seeking the Lord and the Lord opened up the mysteries of Godliness to him. Bishop White became a part of the Apostolic Overcoming Holy Church of God in 1960. He built the Lord a house in Orlando, Florida, namely, Washington Park A.O.H. Church of God, which he was pastor for six years. His work did not stop there. He founded and was pastor of the St. Cloud A.O.H. Church of God for a short while, then was asked to go to Daytona Beach, Florida and worked there in the ministry for 44 years. He served as Overseer for the state of Florida and Georgia. He served as pastor of the AOH Cathedral from 2003 - 2005. He is currently the pastor of the Hibernian AOH Church of God, Birmingham, AL. 2005 - Present. He is a man that fears the Lord, keeps the Lord's commandments, and lives a holy life, free and separate from sin. Bishop White has many accomplishments. He furthered his studies at the United Bible College where he received his B.S. degree and continued his studies at the International Bible College, where he received other degrees. He holds a Doctor of Ministry (D.Min.) from Friends International Christian University. He is a family man with six children: Annie Royal, Nathaniel Braxton(deceased), Dr. Larnie White, Jr, Linda White, Darnell White(deceased), and Ida McCroskey; twenty grandchildren and a host of great and great-great grands. Bishop White was consecrated bishop in 2002.

AOH Church of God Diocesan of Foreign Mission

Bishop Grover Williams was born on August 7, 1936 to Grover and Willie Robinson Williams in Longview, Texas. In 1953, Pastor Williams came to Seattle, Washington and subsequently married Audrey Connolly on December 9, 1960. Pastor Grover Williams was baptized in the name of Jesus Christ on February 16, 1964 at Bethel Christian Church, and Holy Ghost filled two day thereafter. As a faithful and dedicated brother of Bethel, he served as Chairman of the Usher Board, Brotherhood, and Broadcast Committee, as well as Sunday School teacher, Truant Officer, Trustee, Finance Committee member, and Harvest Outreach member. Pastor Williams also served faithfully, in the Pacific Northwest District Council and was appointed the first Brotherhood Chairman. In 1979, Pastor Williams joined the AOH Church with Elder Lawrence E. Williams, pastor of Faith Deliverance Assembly AOH Church. After faithfully serving at Faith Deliverance, Elder Lawrence Williams sent him to pastor Faith Mission in Everett, Washington. Pastor Williams was ordained an Elder on June 9, 1993 and on July 25, 1993 he was installed Pastor of then renamed New Faith AOH Church of God. Bishop Grover Williams is instrumental in overseeing the foreign mission work for the AOH Church of God. Bishop Williams attended Cascade Bible College and A. L. Hardy Academy, graduating with a B.A. in Theology in May of 1993. In June 2005, Bishop Williams received his Masters degree in Theology from Friends International Christian University. Bishop Williams was consecrated bishop in 2007.

AOH Church of God Cathedral of the Cross Welcomes New Pastor

Bishop Phillip Wright was born and raised up in Faith Tabernacle A.O.H. Church, Chicago, Illinois. The late Overseer James H. Durham was his pastor. He met his wife, Ametha at the A.O.H. Youth Convention in 1970. They married in 1972 and now have four children. He has held office since his youth at the District and National levels of the A.O.H. Church of God. He served as past Presider of the A.O.H. Northern Regional Youth Convention. Appointed pastor of Sheriff Temple A.O.H. National Executive Board and currently serves as its Executive Board Secretary. Bishop Wright received a Bachelors if Arts and Master of Science-Industrial Arts-Plumbing Science United Association School of Engineering-Purdue University Contract Campus. He also attended Southern Illinois University, Moody Bible College, and A.O.H. Theological Seminary. He is employed with the Illinois Department of Public Health-State of Illinois Certified Plumbing Inspector. He is an Illinois Environmental Protection Agency Licensed Inspector. He is a member of the Illinois Plumbing Inspectors Association-Member of the American Society of Plumbing Engineers Association. Bishop Wright has been listed as Who's Who in Black America since 1985. The Illinois General Assembly House of Representatives honored him with a Resolution. He is a retired member of the Champaign Urbana and Vicinity Ministerial Alliance. Bishop Wright is also retired Corporate Board member of the Opportunities Industrialization Centers of Champaign county. He has been the recipient of the Spirit of Detroit Award, Detroit, MI and the Board of Alderman Award, Louisville, Kentucky. Bishop Wright was consecrated bishop in 2002.

AOH Church of God Elects New Assistant National/International Presider

Bishop Lawrence Williams was born to Reverend and Mrs. Lawrence E. Williams, Sr. in Tulsa, Oklahoma on November 3, 1942. He is the eldest child of eight children. His parents relocated to Kansas City, Missouri when he was an infant. He attended the greater Kansas City Public Schools and graduated from Manual Vocational High School. Upon completion of high school, he attended the Automation Institute where he received a diploma in Data Processing. In 1963, he was inducted into the United States Army where he served as a Medical Corpsman and Laboratory Technician. Upon returning from oversees duty in South Korea, (where he established his first church), he received an honorable discharge from the military service. He then settled in Seattle, Washington. Shortly after arriving in Seattle he obtained employment at the University of Washington Hospital. He worked in the Department of Orthopedics and Urology as a surgical technician for approximately two and a half years while attending community college. He was also employed by the State of Washington with the Department of Social and Health Services as a Financial Service Technician. His duties entailed investigating complaints, identifying financial errors, and when appropriate, made referrals to the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office. He appeared in court as an expert witness for the state, when required by legal proceedings. Bishop Williams received his degree from Seattle Pacific University in the field of Christian Education, with an emphasis in Church Administration and Biblical Studies. In his studies, he received certifications as a Vocational Resource Instructor from the Puget Sound Educational District. He is now retired from the public school system where he taught for over eighteen years. He also served as the Director of Youth Ministries for the Pacific Northwest District Council for the Pentecostal Assemblies of the World for eight years. This district included the states of Washington, Oregon, Alaska, and Idaho. In 1979, he co-founded Faith Deliverance Assembly A.O.H. Church of God, Inc. in Seattle, Washington, which he has pastored for the past thirty-six years. During his present pastorialship, he established Faith Christian Academy and Faith A.O.H. Bible College. He also organized and founded, New Faith A.O.H. Church of God, Inc., located in Everett, Washington. He pastored New Faith A.O.H Church for three and a half years before appointing another pastor there. The name of the church was later changed to New Faith A.O.H. Church of God. He received an Honorary Doctorate of Divinity in 1983. He presently serves on the Executive Board of the International Apostolic Overcoming Holy Church of God, Inc., and has for the past twenty-eight years. He has also served on the National Trustee Board for over twenty-two years. Bishop Williams is the Bishop over the National/ International Education Department of the A.O.H. Churches of God, Worldwide. He was named ‘Minister of the Year’ for two consecutive years in the Western Regional Ministerial Council. In addition, Bishop Williams was appointed the Assistant National/International Presider at the 99th Annual AOH Pentecostal Convention. Bishop Williams has been blessed to be married to his wife Thelma for forty-three years. They have four beautiful daughters, JoAnna, Jeanette, Michelle, and Kristy, who along with their husbands are all active in the ministry. They are also the proud grandparents of sixteen grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

AOH Church of God Centennial Celebration

The Apostolic Overcoming Holy Church of God, Inc. will be celebrating 100 years in 2016. The theme is "The Church Built On A Sure Foundation" 2 Peter 2:19 Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his. And, Let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity. Pentecost 2016, June 1-10, 2016. Please join us in celebrating 100 years, as we gather to praise God for blessing this great Apostolic Overcoming Holy Church of God. It is through God's blessings and mercy that we have come this far by faith. Come members, former members and all who would like to be a part of this GREAT CELEBRATION. The Celebration will be held at the Cathedral of the Cross AOH Church of God, 1480 Center Point Pkwy., Birmingham, AL 35215. Bishop Gregory Lucy, Chairman, Bishop John H. Mathews, National/International Presiding Prelate.

AOH Church of God Elects New National/ International Prelate

AOH Church of God Elects New National International Prelate Bishop John H. Mathews is the Pastor of Mt. Zion A.O.H. Church of God in Dayton, Ohio. He has pastored for over 40 years, preaching and teaching the unadulterated word of God. He is the Diocesan over the Ohio Ninth District and 28th District in Alabama.As a pastor serving in Cincinnati and Dayton his ministry assisted in opening a Christian Book Store and Ministerial Alliance with associate ministers in the Church. He also worked with the A.O.H. Education Department for ministers, served as the former Executive Board Secretary, and is the chairman for the License and Ordination Department. His Leadership Persona is enhanced by his experience as a soldier in the United States Army serving in the Korean War. Bishop Mathews is a husband of fifty years and a father of two children and three grandchildren.His focus is working in the public sector to encourage optimism in today's youth and promote basic family values through spiritual educational programs. He also has worked with the President of the Dayton Board of Education. Achievements:1950- Graduated from Dunbar High School, Dayton, Ohio; 1951- Attended Reaver School of Chiropractics, Dayton, Ohio; 1952-54- Served in United States Army during Korean conflict; 1957- Married Dorothy J. Jones of Egypt, Mississippi; 1962- Received Diploma of Theology from Dayton Bible Institute; 1963-65- Took courses from American Bible College, Pineland,FL; 1965- Appointed Pastor of A.O.H. Church in Cincinnati, Ohio; 1970-80- Overseer of the States of Connecticut, New York, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Washington, D.C., and Ohio; 1981- Consecrated Bishop; 1981- Burned Mortgage in Old Mt. Zion A.O.H. Church; 2001- Elected Assistant Presider of A.O.H. Church; 2002- Dedicated the New Mt. Zion A.O.H. Church; 2003- Elected to Executive Community of Dayton Branch NAACP; 2015-Elected International/National Presiding Prelate of the Apostolic Overcoming Holy Church of God by the National Executive Board at the 99th Annual Pentecost meeting.

Rev. G. Labron Smith: "Gone But Not Forgotten"

Please join me in praying for the family and friends of Rev. G. Labron Smith. "Gone But Not Forgotten." He was a prolific preacher, an accomplished musician, a gifted and anointed singer, and one of the finest young men I have known. He served faithfully as the President of the AOH National Youth Convention and the National Minister of Music.

AOH CHURCH OF GOD INC. PURCHASE THE CATHEDRAL OF THE CROSS

Congratulations to the AOH CHURCH OF GOD, INTERNATIONAL PRELATE, BISHOP G. W. AYERS, on the purchase of the new headquarters, Cathedral of the Cross, a 5,100 seat auditorium facility located in Center Point, AL, a suburb of Birmingham. This has got to be a very proud moment in the history of this great church. Under the late founder, Bishop W. T. Phillips leadership, the church purchased the Phillips Temple, a 1,000 seat auditorium in Mobile for a headquarters. Under Bishop Jasper Roby, the church built the AOH Cathedral, a 2,000 seat auditorium, and moved the headquarters to Birmingham. When Bishop Ayers became the presider, and after the sale of the Cathedral, the headquarters was relocated back to Mobile. However it was Bishop Ayers desire to have a facility that could accommodate the delegation for the Annual National Pentecost Convention. Plans were in motion to expand the Phillips Temple auditorium to a 3,000 seat auditorium for 3 million. Then something miraculous happened. The Cathedral of the Cross was placed on the market and Bishop Ayers was lead to make an offer of 2 million and it was accepted. So now the new headquarters will relocate to Birmingham. This facility is ideal. Not only does it have a 5,100 seat auditorium, it is fully equipped with a Youth Ministry auditorium, a Children's Ministry auditorium, a Wedding Chapel, a Full Court Gymnasium, over 26 Administrative Offices, over 800 Parking Spaces, a state of the art Multi-Media Center, and much, much more! Again, congratulations to the international Prelate, Bishop G. W. Ayers for your impeccable leadership of the Apostolic Overcoming Holy Church of God, Inc.

AOH CHURCH OF GOD

GOD'S ECONOMY

Gen 50:22-26 And Joseph dwelt in Egypt, he, and his father's house: and Joseph lived an hundred and ten years. 23 And Joseph saw Ephraim's children of the third generation: the children also of Machir the son of Manasseh were brought up upon Joseph's knees. 24 And Joseph said unto his brethren, I die: and God will surely visit you, and bring you out of this land unto the land which he sware to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob. 25 And Joseph took an oath of the children of Israel, saying, God will surely visit you, and ye shall carry up my bones from hence. 26 So Joseph died, being an hundred and ten years old: and they embalmed him, and he was put in a coffin in Egypt.

This is the final chapter in this great story. Joseph, the boy who was hated by his own brothers, because he had a dream about his destiny, who plotted to kill him; sold him into slavery to the Ishmaelites; sold to Potapher in Egypt by the Ishmaelites; thrown into prison by Potapher; forgotten about for two years; finally he is promoted from the pit to the palace only to become second in command to Pharaoh himself. He realized his dream; was reunited with his family; preserved all of Egypt and his family from the seven year famine; made Pharaoh a very, very rich man. His family was given Goshen, the richest fertile land in all of Egypt.

His father, Jacob, pronounced a special blessing upon his two sons, Ephraim and Manasseh, and also upon him. He buried his father like royalty as he requested. Joseph saw his dream come true and his brothers and all of his family enjoyed a prosperous life in Egypt. He lived to be one hundred and ten and was able to enjoy his grandchildren and great grand children.

Now we notice something very interesting here. He spoke prophetically over his family: 24 And Joseph said unto his brethren, I die: and God will surely visit you, and bring you out of this land unto the land which he sware to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob. Again I can not over emphasize how important it is to hold on to your dream. If God has ever spoken over your life, hold on to that promise. It shall come to pass. Here we see Joseph on his dying bed, yet he reminds the family what God has promised. Never give up hope. This is what drives you. Remember Faith is the substance of things hoped for. If you lose hope, Faith has nothing to work with. Faith without works is dead. It is not enough to talk it, you have to walk it. You must put your faith into action.

AOH CHURCH OF GOD

GOD'S ECONOMY

Gen 50:10-21 And they came to the threshingfloor of Atad, which is beyond Jordan, and there they mourned with a great and very sore lamentation: and he made a mourning for his father seven days. 11 And when the inhabitants of the land, the Canaanites, saw the mourning in the floor of Atad, they said, This is a grievous mourning to the Egyptians: wherefore the name of it was called Abel-mizraim, which is beyond Jordan. 12 And his sons did unto him according as he commanded them: 13 For his sons carried him into the land of Canaan, and buried him in the cave of the field of Machpelah, which Abraham bought with the field for a possession of a buryingplace of Ephron the Hittite, before Mamre. 14 And Joseph returned into Egypt, he, and his brethren, and all that went up with him to bury his father, after he had buried his father. 15 And when Joseph's brethren saw that their father was dead, they said, Joseph will peradventure hate us, and will certainly requite us all the evil which we did unto him. 16 And they sent a messenger unto Joseph, saying, Thy father did command before he died, saying, 17 So shall ye say unto Joseph, Forgive, I pray thee now, the trespass of thy brethren, and their sin; for they did unto thee evil: and now, we pray thee, forgive the trespass of the servants of the God of thy father. And Joseph wept when they spake unto him. 18 And his brethren also went and fell down before his face; and they said, Behold, we be thy servants. 19 And Joseph said unto them, Fear not: for am I in the place of God? 20 But as for you, ye thought evil against me; but God meant it unto good, to bring to pass, as it is this day, to save much people alive. 21 Now therefore fear ye not: I will nourish you, and your little ones. And he comforted them, and spake kindly unto them.

Today's lesson is very powerful in that it teaches us another very important principle when operating in God's Economy. After They return from burying their father, Jacob, Joseph's brothers are afraid that he is planning to get revenge for what they did to him. This is the world's system. You get me and I get you back. In some cases, I may get you before you get me. However, in the Word's System, we must forgive and forget. The Word of the Lord declares: Matt 6:14-15 For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you: 15 But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.

Matt 18:21 Then came Peter to him, and said, Lord, how oft shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? till seven times?

Mark 11:25-26 And when ye stand praying, forgive , if ye have ought against any: that your Father also which is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses. 26 But if ye do not forgive , neither will your Father which is in heaven forgive your trespasses.

Luke 17:3-4 Take heed to yourselves: If thy brother trespass against thee, rebuke him; and if he repent, forgive him. 4 And if he trespass against thee seven times in a day, and seven times in a day turn again to thee, saying, I repent; thou shalt forgive him.

Forgiveness is a very, very important principle when operating in the Kingdom of God. If you don't forgive a person, you hold them in bondage and you also hold yourself in bondage. You are blocking their blessing and you are blocking your own blessing. You may say, you don't know how bad they treated me, or how deep they hurt me. Yes, I know people can do some low down, evil, nasty things, but Jesus said you must forgive them so He can forgive you, and you both can move forward. Joseph was sold into slavery by his own brothers. This lead to him being sold again into slavery down in Egypt; thrown into prison; and forgotten. But God...delivered him and he was promoted from the pit to the palace in one day. He became the Governor of Egypt, only second in command to Pharaoh, and saved his family from the famine. Note his response to his brothers. And Joseph wept when they spake unto him. 18 And his brethren also went and fell down before his face; and they said, Behold, we be thy servants. 19 And Joseph said unto them, Fear not: for am I in the place of God? 20 But as for you, ye thought evil against me; but God meant it unto good, to bring to pass, as it is this day, to save much people alive. 21 Now therefore fear ye not: I will nourish you, and your little ones. And he comforted them, and spake kindly unto them.

Friend I can not over emphasize how important this is in order to move forward. I encourage you to stop today and take inventory and see if there is any unforgiveness in your heart. The Word of the Lord declares: Matt 5:23-24 Therefore if thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath ought against thee; 24 Leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift.

Mark 11:25-26 And when ye stand praying, forgive, if ye have ought against any: that your Father also which is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses. 26 But if ye do not forgive, neither will your Father which is in heaven forgive your trespasses.

AOH CHURCH OF GOD

GOD'S ECONOMY

Gen 50:1-9 And Joseph fell upon his father's face, and wept upon him, and kissed him. 2 And Joseph commanded his servants the physicians to embalm his father: and the physicians embalmed Israel. 3 And forty days were fulfilled for him; for so are fulfilled the days of those which are embalmed: and the Egyptians mourned for him threescore and ten days. 4 And when the days of his mourning were past, Joseph spake unto the house of Pharaoh, saying, If now I have found grace in your eyes, speak, I pray you, in the ears of Pharaoh, saying, 5 My father made me swear, saying, Lo, I die: in my grave which I have digged for me in the land of Canaan, there shalt thou bury me. Now therefore let me go up, I pray thee, and bury my father, and I will come again. 6 And Pharaoh said, Go up, and bury thy father, according as he made thee swear. 7 And Joseph went up to bury his father: and with him went up all the servants of Pharaoh, the elders of his house, and all the elders of the land of Egypt, 8 And all the house of Joseph, and his brethren, and his father's house: only their little ones, and their flocks, and their herds, they left in the land of Goshen. 9 And there went up with him both chariots and horsemen: and it was a very great company.

Although this is a record of the passing of the great Patriarch, Jacob (Israel), in light of the fact, that we are talking about God's Economy, please note the following very carefully.

-Joseph was sold into slavery by his brothers, to the Ishmaelites.
-Joseph was sold into Egypt, by the Ismaelites, as a slave, to Potiphar.
-Joseph was promoted to the Overseer over Potiphar's house.
-Joseph was put into prison because Potiphar's wife lied on him.
-Joseph was promoted to head trustee of the prison.
-Joseph interpreted the baker's dream, but was forgotten for two years.
-Joseph was promoted to Governor of Egypt, by Pharaoh.

Now we note that:
-Joseph is very rich with physicians as his servants.
-Joseph has favor with Pharaoh and is granted permission to go bury his father in Canaan and takes a great entourage with him.
7 And Joseph went up to bury his father: and with him went up all the servants of Pharaoh, the elders of his house, and all the elders of the land of Egypt, 8 And all the house of Joseph, and his brethren, and his father's house: only their little ones, and their flocks, and their herds, they left in the land of Goshen. 9 And there went up with him both chariots and horsemen: and it was a very great company.

Friend, I rest my case. This is a classic example of how we are blessed abundantly when we operate in God's Economy. I strongly urge you today to embrace this principle whole heartedly, and begin to enjoy the blessings of God. The Word of the Lord declares:
John 10:10 The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.

AOH CHURCH OF GOD

Gen 48 1-22 And it came to pass after these things, that one told Joseph, Behold, thy father is sick: and he took with him his two sons, Manasseh and Ephraim. 2 And one told Jacob, and said, Behold, thy son Joseph cometh unto thee: and Israel strengthened himself, and sat upon the bed. 3 And Jacob said unto Joseph, God Almighty appeared unto me at Luz in the land of Canaan, and blessed me, 4 And said unto me, Behold, I will make thee fruitful, and multiply thee, and I will make of thee a multitude of people; and will give this land to thy seed after thee for an everlasting possession. 5 And now thy two sons, Ephraim and Manasseh, which were born unto thee in the land of Egypt before I came unto thee into Egypt, are mine; as Reuben and Simeon, they shall be mine. 6 And thy issue, which thou begettest after them, shall be thine, and shall be called after the name of their brethren in their inheritance. 7 And as for me, when I came from Padan, Rachel died by me in the land of Canaan in the way, when yet there was but a little way to come unto Ephrath: and I buried her there in the way of Ephrath; the same is Bethlehem. 8 And Israel beheld Joseph's sons, and said, Who are these? 9 And Joseph said unto his father, They are my sons, whom God hath given me in this place. And he said, Bring them, I pray thee, unto me, and I will bless them. 10 Now the eyes of Israel were dim for age, so that he could not see. And he brought them near unto him; and he kissed them, and embraced them. 11 And Israel said unto Joseph, I had not thought to see thy face: and, lo, God hath shewed me also thy seed. 12 And Joseph brought them out from between his knees, and he bowed himself with his face to the earth. 13 And Joseph took them both, Ephraim in his right hand toward Israel's left hand, and Manasseh in his left hand toward Israel's right hand, and brought them near unto him. 14 And Israel stretched out his right hand, and laid it upon Ephraim's head, who was the younger, and his left hand upon Manasseh's head, guiding his hands wittingly; for Manasseh was the firstborn. 15 And he blessed Joseph, and said, God, before whom my fathers Abraham and Isaac did walk, the God which fed me all my life long unto this day, 16 The Angel which redeemed me from all evil, bless the lads; and let my name be named on them, and the name of my fathers Abraham and Isaac; and let them grow into a multitude in the midst of the earth. 17 And when Joseph saw that his father laid his right hand upon the head of Ephraim, it displeased him: and he held up his father's hand, to remove it from Ephraim's head unto Manasseh's head. 18 And Joseph said unto his father, Not so, my father: for this is the firstborn; put thy right hand upon his head. 19 And his father refused, and said, I know it, my son, I know it: he also shall become a people, and he also shall be great: but truly his younger brother shall be greater than he, and his seed shall become a multitude of nations. 20 And he blessed them that day, saying, In thee shall Israel bless, saying, God make thee as Ephraim and as Manasseh: and he set Ephraim before Manasseh. 21 And Israel said unto Joseph, Behold, I die: but God shall be with you, and bring you again unto the land of your fathers. 22 Moreover I have given to thee one portion above thy brethren, which I took out of the hand of the Amorite with my sword and with my bow.


-Joseph goes to visit his sick father, Jacob
-Jacob tells Joseph how the Lord promised to bless him and his seed.
-Jacob says he is taking Joseph's twos sons, Manaseh and Ephraim as his very own.
-Jacob Places his right hand upon Ephraim, the youngest and his left hand upon Manaseh, the eldest.
-Joseph becomes upset because it is customary for the first born to get the birthright blessing.
-Jacob acknowledges that he did not make a mistake and proclaim the blessing.
-Jacob also proclaim a blessing over the younger as well.
-Jacob proclaim a very special blessing upon Joseph, who was a younger son as well.

In this illustration, I see how God is sovereign, and always in control. Remember, we do not operate in the World's system, but in the Word's system. Man has his traditions and customs, but God had the first word and he will have the last word.

The word of the Lord declares:
Matt 19:30 But many that are first shall be last ; and the last shall be first.
Matt 20:4 And said unto them; Go ye also into the vineyard , and whatsoever is right I will give you. And they went their way.

Listen, you don't have to play politics and games for promotion. Remember, if man promotes you, man can also demote you. But if God promotes you, no man can take you down. Stop brown nosing and kissing up for positions. Stop seeking validation and approval from man. What God has for you, it's for you. Seek to please God and God alone.

The Word of the Lord declares:
Matt 6:33 But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.

AOH CHURCH OF GOD

GOD'S ECONOMY

Gen 47:27 And Israel dwelt in the land of Egypt, in the country of Goshen; and they had possessions therein, and grew, and multiplied exceedingly. 28 And Jacob lived in the land of Egypt seventeen years: so the whole age of Jacob was an hundred forty and seven years. 29 And the time drew nigh that Israel must die: and he called his son Joseph, and said unto him, If now I have found grace in thy sight, put, I pray thee, thy hand under my thigh, and deal kindly and truly with me; bury me not, I pray thee, in Egypt: 30 But I will lie with my fathers, and thou shalt carry me out of Egypt, and bury me in their burying place. And he said, I will do as thou hast said. 31 And he said, Swear unto me. And he sware unto him. And Israel bowed himself upon the bed's head.

-Jacob left home running for his life from his brother Esau.
-Jacob has a dream of God blessing him abundantly.
-Jacob makes a vow to pay his tithes when the Lord blesses him.
-Jacob is richly blessed down at Laban's house for 20 years.
-Jacob returns home, but remembers and keeps his vow to pay his tithes.
-Jacob has another dream and God promises to richly bless him and his seed.

Now we see here in today's lesson how the first part of Jacob's dream has come true. Jacob and his family were richly blessed. Even though there was a great famine in the land, God sent Joseph ahead to prepare the preservation and abundant blessing for Jacob and his entire family.

Gen 47:27 And Israel dwelt in the land of Egypt, in the country of Goshen; and they had possessions therein, and grew, and multiplied exceedingly.

Listen friend, if God said it, that settles it. It shall come to pass. When the famine came, they could have easily said this is it. It's over. Let us prepare to die. There is no food. But Jacob knew that he heard a word from the Lord, that had not yet come to pass. Sure part of it had come to pass, but not all of it. There is something about hearing a word from the Lord. There is something about having a dream or vision from the Lord. It motivates you. It drives you. You can't give up because of circumstances and situations. There is something deep down within you that keeps you going. Continue to operate in God's economy and it shall come to pass!

AOH CHURCH OF GOD

GOD'S ECONOMY

Gen 47:18-26 18 When that year was ended, they came unto him the second year, and said unto him, We will not hide it from my lord, how that our money is spent; my lord also hath our herds of cattle; there is not ought left in the sight of my lord, but our bodies, and our lands: 19 Wherefore shall we die before thine eyes, both we and our land? buy us and our land for bread, and we and our land will be servants unto Pharaoh: and give us seed, that we may live, and not die, that the land be not desolate. 20 And Joseph bought all the land of Egypt for Pharaoh; for the Egyptians sold every man his field, because the famine prevailed over them: so the land became Pharaoh's. 21 And as for the people, he removed them to cities from one end of the borders of Egypt even to the other end thereof. 22 Only the land of the priests bought he not; for the priests had a portion assigned them of Pharaoh, and did eat their portion which Pharaoh gave them: wherefore they sold not their lands. 23 Then Joseph said unto the peoplBehold, I have bought you this day and your land for Pharaoh: lo, here is seed for you, and ye shall sow the land. 24 And it shall come to pass in the increase, that ye shall give the fifth part unto Pharaoh, and four parts shall be your own, for seed of the field, and for your food, and for them of your households, and for food for your little ones. 25 And they said, Thou hast saved our lives: let us find grace in the sight of my lord, and we will be Pharaoh's servants. 26 And Joseph made it a law over the land of Egypt unto this day, that Pharaoh should have the fifth part; except the land of the priests only, which became not Pharaoh's.

Not not only did Joseph make Pharaoh richer with money, but also with ownership of the land, the cattle, and the people as well. Pharaoh literally owned everything and everybody in Egypt, because of Joseph. WOW! Talking about God's Economy in action, this is absolutely incredible!

The next thing we note is that Joseph then turns around and give the people seed, and a fifth of the increase will belong to Pharaoh. This is actually the tithing concept again. But notice the fact that he gave them seed. Many times we think we have the increase, when it is actually the seed. You must sow the seed to get the increase.

AOH CHURCH OF GOD

GOD'S ECONOMY

Gen 47:13-17 And there was no bread in all the land; for the famine was very sore, so that the land of Egypt and all the land of Canaan fainted by reason of the famine. 14 And Joseph gathered up all the money that was found in the land of Egypt, and in the land of Canaan, for the corn which they bought: and Joseph brought the money into Pharaoh's house. 15 And when money failed in the land of Egypt, and in the land of Canaan, all the Egyptians came unto Joseph, and said, Give us bread: for why should we die in thy presence? for the money faileth. 16 And Joseph said, Give your cattle; and I will give you for your cattle, if money fail. 17 And they brought their cattle unto Joseph: and Joseph gave them bread in exchange for horses, and for the flocks, and for the cattle of the herds, and for the asses: and he fed them with bread for all their cattle for that year.

Joseph devised such a clever strategy that Pharaoh became richer, during the famine. Just like Laban was blessed because the blessing was on Jacob, Pharaoh was blessed because the blessing was on Joseph.

The Word of the Lord declares: Gen 12:3 And I will bless them that bless thee , and curse him that curseth thee: and in thee shall all families of the earth be blessed.

The Word of the Lord also declares:
Prov 13:22 A good man leaveth an inheritance to his children's children: and the wealth of the sinner is laid up for the just.


You may not realize it but if you are a citizen of the Kingdom of God, not only are you blessed, but other folk are blessed also. Your job is blessed. Your business is blessed. Your family and friends are all blessed because of you.

AOH CHURCH OF GOD

Ge 47:1-12 Then Joseph came and told Pharaoh, and said, My father and my brethren, and their flocks, and their herds, and all that they have, are come out of the land of Canaan; and, behold, they are in the land of Goshen. 2 And he took some of his brethren, even five men, and presented them unto Pharaoh. 3 And Pharaoh said unto his brethren, What is your occupation? And they said unto Pharaoh, Thy servants are shepherds, both we, and also our fathers. 4 They said moreover unto Pharaoh, For to sojourn in the land are we come; for thy servants have no pasture for their flocks; for the famine is sore in the land of Canaan: now therefore, we pray thee, let thy servants dwell in the land of Goshen. 5 And Pharaoh spake unto Joseph, saying, Thy father and thy brethren are come unto thee: 6 The land of Egypt is before thee; in the best of the land make thy father and brethren to dwell; in the land of Goshen let them dwell: and if thou knowest any men of activity among them, then make them rulers over my cattle. 7 And Joseph brought in Jacob his father, and set him before Pharaoh: and Jacob blessed Pharaoh. 8 And Pharaoh said unto Jacob, How old art thou? 9 And Jacob said unto Pharaoh, The days of the years of my pilgrimage are an hundred and thirty years: few and evil have the days of the years of my life been, and have not attained unto the days of the years of the life of my fathers in the days of their pilgrimage. 10 And Jacob blessed Pharaoh, and went out from before Pharaoh. 11 And Joseph placed his father and his brethren, and gave them a possession in the land of Egypt, in the best of the land, in the land of Rameses, as Pharaoh had commanded. 12 And Joseph nourished his father, and his brethren, and all his father's household, with bread, according to their families.

Not only does Jacob come into Egypt, from a land with not enough to a land with more than enough, he and his family are given Goshen, the best land in all of Egypt. Somebody say Increase! The world is celebrating recession, but the Kingdom of God is celebrating Increase!

AOH CHURCH OF GOD

GOD'S ECONOMY


Ge 46:26-34 All the souls that came with Jacob into Egypt, which came out of his loins, besides Jacob's sons' wives, all the souls were threescore and six; 27 And the sons of Joseph, which were born him in Egypt, were two souls: all the souls of the house of Jacob, which came into Egypt, were threescore and ten. 28 And he sent Judah before him unto Joseph, to direct his face unto Goshen; and they came into the land of Goshen. 29 And Joseph made ready his chariot, and went up to meet Israel his father, to Goshen, and presented himself unto him; and he fell on his neck, and wept on his neck a good while. 30 And Israel said unto Joseph, Now let me die, since I have seen thy face, because thou art yet alive. 31 And Joseph said unto his brethren, and unto his father's house, I will go up, and shew Pharaoh, and say unto him, My brethren, and my father's house, which were in the land of Canaan, are come unto me; 32 And the men are shepherds, for their trade hath been to feed cattle; and they have brought their flocks, and their herds, and all that they have. 33 And it shall come to pass, when Pharaoh shall call you, and shall say, What is your occupation? 34 That ye shall say, Thy servants' trade hath been about cattle from our youth even until now, both we, and also our fathers: that ye may dwell in the land of Goshen; for every shepherd is an abomination unto the Egyptians.

Here we see Jacob (Israel), has come into Egypt, as Joseph's family, which is really royalty. They went from living in Canaan, where there was a great famine, or not enough, to Goshen, where there is more than enough. This is God's Economy in action.

AOH CHURCH OF GOD

GOD'S ECONOMY

Ge 46:1-7 And Israel took his journey with all that he had, and came to Beer-sheba, and offered sacrifices unto the God of his father Isaac. 2 And God spake unto Israel in the visions of the night, and said, Jacob, Jacob. And he said, Here am I. 3 And he said, I am God, the God of thy father: fear not to go down into Egypt; for I will there make of thee a great nation: 4 I will go down with thee into Egypt; and I will also surely bring thee up again: and Joseph shall put his hand upon thine eyes. 5 And Jacob rose up from Beer-sheba: and the sons of Israel carried Jacob their father, and their little ones, and their wives, in the wagons which Pharaoh had sent to carry him. 6 And they took their cattle, and their goods, which they had gotten in the land of Canaan, and came into Egypt, Jacob, and all his seed with him: 7 His sons, and his sons' sons with him, his daughters, and his sons' daughters, and all his seed brought he with him into Egypt.

We can very well see hear that Jacob was true worshiper. He goes on his journey to Egypt, but he stopped at Beer-sheba and offers God a sacrifice and worship and God speaks into his life once again. Jesus told the woman at the well: John 4:23-24 But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshipers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him. 24 God is a Spirit : and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth.

This verse suggest that there are true worshipers and there are false worshipers. True worshipers understand that it is necessary to have a relationship with God and that God is a Spirit and that they must worship Him in the spirit and with the spirit. Anybody can praise God buyt you must have a relationship with him to worship Him.

AOH CHURCH OF GOD

GOD'S ECONOMY

THIS LESSON SPEAKS FOR ITSELF:
Ge 45:1-28 Then Joseph could not refrain himself before all them that stood by him; and he cried, Cause every man to go out from me. And there stood no man with him, while Joseph made himself known unto his brethren. 2 And he wept aloud: and the Egyptians and the house of Pharaoh heard. 3 And Joseph said unto his brethren, I am Joseph; doth my father yet live? And his brethren could not answer him; for they were troubled at his presence.4 And Joseph said unto his brethren, Come near to me, I pray you. And they came near. And he said, I am Joseph your brother, whom ye sold into Egypt. 5 Now therefore be not grieved, nor angry with yourselves, that ye sold me hither: for God did send me before you to preserve life. 6 For these two years hath the famine been in the land: and yet there are five years, in the which there shall neither be earing nor harvest. 7 And God sent me before you to preserve you a posterity in the earth, and to save your lives by a great deliverance. 8 So now it was not you that sent me hither, but God: and he hath made me a father to Pharaoh, and lord of all his house, and a ruler throughout all the land of Egypt. 9 Haste ye, and go up to my father, and say unto him, Thus saith thy son Joseph, God hath made me lord of all Egypt: come down unto me, tarry not: 10 And thou shalt dwell in the land of Goshen, and thou shalt be near unto me, thou, and thy children, and thy children's children, and thy flocks, and thy herds, and all that thou hast: 11 And there will I nourish thee; for yet there are five years of famine; lest thou, and thy household, and all that thou hast, come to poverty. 12 And, behold, your eyes see, and the eyes of my brother Benjamin, that it is my mouth that speaketh unto you. 13 And ye shall tell my father of all my glory in Egypt, and of all that ye have seen; and ye shall haste and bring down my father hither. 14 And he fell upon his brother Benjamin's neck, and wept; and Benjamin wept upon his neck. 15 Moreover he kissed all his brethren, and wept upon them: and after that his brethren talked with him. 16 And the fame thereof was heard in Pharaoh's house, saying, Joseph's brethren are come: and it pleased Pharaoh well, and his servants. 17 And Pharaoh said unto Joseph, Say unto thy brethren, This do ye; lade your beasts, and go, get you unto the land of Canaan; 18 And take your father and your households, and come unto me: and I will give you the good of the land of Egypt, and ye shall eat the fat of the land. 19 Now thou art commanded, this do ye; take you wagons out of the land of Egypt for your little ones, and for your wives, and bring your father, and come. 20 Also regard not your stuff; for the good of all the land of Egypt is yours. 21 And the children of Israel did so: and Joseph gave them wagons, according to the commandment of Pharaoh, and gave them provision for the way. 22 To all of them he gave each man changes of raiment; but to Benjamin he gave three hundred pieces of silver, and five changes of raiment. 23 And to his father he sent after this manner; ten asses laden with the good things of Egypt, and ten she asses laden with corn and bread and meat for his father by the way. 24 So he sent his brethren away, and they departed: and he said unto them, See that ye fall not out by the way. 25 And they went up out of Egypt, and came into the land of Canaan unto Jacob their father, 26 And told him, saying, Joseph is yet alive, and he is governor over all the land of Egypt. And Jacob's heart fainted, for he believed them not. 27 And they told him all the words of Joseph, which he had said unto them: and when he saw the wagons which Joseph had sent to carry him, the spirit of Jacob their father revived: 28 And Israel said, It is enough; Joseph my son is yet alive: I will go and see him before I die.

AOH CHURCH OF GOD

GOD'S ECONOMY

Joseph was promoted to Governor of all of Egypt. Only Pharaoh was higher than him. He was elevated from the pit to the palace in one day. Pharaoh gave him a Royal Ring; a Royal Robe; a Royal Chariot; and a Royal Wife. WOW! He went from living in a dark, dismal, dirty dungeon, to a luxurious palace in one day. That's how fast God can turn a situation around. He has no respect of person, and he will do the same thing for you. Just don't give up on your dream; your vision; your promise.

Now we see the famine has not only hit Egypt, but also Canaan, where his father and brothers live. Jacob hears that there is food in Egypt and he send his sons there. It's amazing to me how God is so in control. Joseph's brothers are now bowing before him, just like God showed him in his dream, many years ago. WOW! This is so awesome! This is so encouraging to me. I am looking, with great expectation, everyday, for my promise from God. If God said it, that settles it! Hold on to your promise. Hold on to your dream. Hold on to your vision. It shall come to pass.

Ge 42:1-9 Now when Jacob saw that there was corn in Egypt, Jacob said unto his sons, Why do ye look one upon another? 2 And he said, Behold, I have heard that there is corn in Egypt: get you down thither, and buy for us from thence; that we may live, and not die. 3 And Joseph's ten brethren went down to buy corn in Egypt. 4 But Benjamin, Joseph's brother, Jacob sent not with his brethren; for he said, Lest peradventure mischief befall him. 5 And the sons of Israel came to buy corn among those that came: for the famine was in the land of Canaan. 6 And Joseph was the governor over the land, and he it was that sold to all the people of the land: and Joseph's brethren came, and bowed down themselves before him with their faces to the earth. 7 And Joseph saw his brethren, and he knew them, but made himself strange unto them, and spake roughly unto them; and he said unto them, Whence come ye? And they said, From the land of Canaan to buy food. 8 And Joseph knew his brethren, but they knew not him. 9 And Joseph remembered the dreams which he dreamed of them, and said unto them, Ye are spies; to see the nakedness of the land ye are come.

AOH CHURCH OF GOD

GOD'S ECONOMY

I really love this beautiful story of Joseph. So many of us can identify with it. Joseph was unassuming. He did not buck for power or position. He did not promote himself. He did brag about his gift to interpret dreams. He simply loved and honored God, and walked in the Spirit of Excellence. This is another component of operating in God's Economy. The word of the Lord declares, "It's better to be asked up, than to be asked down."

Ge 41:38-42 And Pharaoh said unto his servants, Can we find such a one as this is, a man in whom the Spirit of God is? 39 And Pharaoh said unto Joseph, Forasmuch as God hath shewed thee all this, there is none so discreet and wise as thou art: 40 Thou shalt be over my house, and according unto thy word shall all my people be ruled: only in the throne will I be greater than thou. 41 And Pharaoh said unto Joseph, See, I have set thee over all the land of Egypt. 42 And Pharaoh took off his ring from his hand, and put it upon Joseph's hand, and arrayed him in vestures of fine linen, and put a gold chain about his neck; 43 And he made him to ride in the second chariot which he had; and they cried before him, Bow the knee: and he made him ruler over all the land of Egypt. 44 And Pharaoh said unto Joseph, I am Pharaoh, and without thee shall no man lift up his hand or foot in all the land of Egypt. 45 And Pharaoh called Joseph's name Zaphnath-paaneah; and he gave him to wife Asenath the daughter of Poti-pherah priest of On. And Joseph went out over all the land of Egypt. 46 And Joseph was thirty years old when he stood before Pharaoh king of Egypt. And Joseph went out from the presence of Pharaoh, and went throughout all the land of Egypt. 47 And in the seven plenteous years the earth brought forth by handfuls. 48 And he gathered up all the food of the seven years, which were in the land of Egypt, and laid up the food in the cities: the food of the field, which was round about every city, laid he up in the same. 49 And Joseph gathered corn as the sand of the sea, very much, until he left numbering; for it was without number. 50 And unto Joseph were born two sons before the years of famine came, which Asenath the daughter of Poti-pherah priest of On bare unto him. 51 And Joseph called the name of the firstborn Manasseh: For God, said he, hath made me forget all my toil, and all my father's house. 52 And the name of the second called he Ephraim: For God hath caused me to be fruitful in the land of my affliction. 53 And the seven years of plenteousness, that was in the land of Egypt, were ended. 54 And the seven years of dearth began to come, according as Joseph had said: and the dearth was in all lands; but in all the land of Egypt there was bread. 55 And when all the land of Egypt was famished, the people cried to Pharaoh for bread: and Pharaoh said unto all the Egyptians, Go unto Joseph; what he saith to you, do. 56 And the famine was over all the face of the earth: and Joseph opened all the storehouses, and sold unto the Egyptians; and the famine waxed sore in the land of Egypt. 57 And all countries came into Egypt to Joseph for to buy corn; because that the famine was so sore in all lands.

AOH CHURCH OF GOD

GOD'S ECONOMY

We have established that although Joseph had every reason to complain and be depressed, he was just the opposite. He was concerned about others. This is because he had heard a word from the Lord when he was a boy. There is something very reassuring about hearing a word from the Lord. I know because I too heard a word from the Lord over thirty years ago, that has not yet come to pass. This keeps me encouraged during my down times. You have to have a strategy to stay up, even when you should be down; to be positive when you should be negative; to laugh when you should be crying. Pray without ceasing. Meditate in the word day and night. Sing praises unto God. Help someone less fortunate than you.

Ge 41:1-45 AFTER TWO full years, Pharaoh dreamed that he stood by the river [Nile]. 2 And behold, there came up out of the river [Nile] seven well-favored cows, sleek and handsome and fat; and they grazed in the reed grass [in a marshy pasture]. 3 And behold, seven other cows came up after them out of the river [Nile], ill favored and gaunt and ugly, and stood by the fat cows on the bank of the river [Nile]. 4 And the ill-favored, gaunt, and ugly cows ate up the seven well-favored and fat cows. Then Pharaoh awoke. 5 But he slept and dreamed the second time; and behold, seven ears of grain came out on one stalk, plump and good. 6 And behold, after them seven ears [of grain] sprouted, thin and blighted by the east wind. 7 And the seven thin ears [of grain] devoured the seven plump and full ears. And Pharaoh awoke, and behold, it was a dream. 8 So when morning came his spirit was troubled, and he sent and called for all the magicians and all the wise men of Egypt. And Pharaoh told them his dreams, but not one could interpret them to [him]. 9 Then the chief butler said to Pharaoh, I remember my faults today. 10 When Pharaoh was angry with his servants and put me in custody in the captain of the guard's house, both me and the chief baker, 11 We dreamed a dream in the same night, he and I; we dreamed each of us according to [the significance of] the interpretation of his dream. 12 And there was there with us a young man, a Hebrew, servant to the captain of the guard and chief executioner; and we told him our dreams, and he interpreted them to us, to each man according to the significance of his dream. 13 And as he interpreted to us, so it came to pass; I was restored to my office [as chief butler], and the baker was hanged. 14 Then Pharaoh sent and called Joseph, and they brought him hastily out of the dungeon. But Joseph [first] shaved himself, changed his clothes, and made himself presentable; then he came into Pharaoh's presence. 15 And Pharaoh said to Joseph, I have dreamed a dream, and there is no one who can interpret it; and I have heard it said of you that you can understand a dream and interpret it. 16 Joseph answered Pharaoh, It is not in me; God [not I] will give Pharaoh a [favorable] answer of peace. 17 And Pharaoh said to Joseph, In my dream, behold, I stood on the bank of the river [Nile]; 18 And behold, there came up out of the river [Nile] seven fat, sleek, and handsome cows, and they grazed in the reed grass [of a marshy pasture]. 19 And behold, seven other cows came up after them, undernourished, gaunt, and ugly [just skin and bones; such emaciated animals] as I have never seen in all of Egypt. 20 And the lean and ill favored cows ate up the seven fat cows that had come first. 21 And when they had eaten them up, it could not be detected and known that they had eaten them, for they were still as thin and emaciated as at the beginning. Then I awoke. [But again I fell asleep and dreamed.]22 And I saw in my dream, and behold, seven ears [of grain] growing on one stalk, plump and good. 23 And behold, seven [other] ears, withered, thin, and blighted by the east wind, sprouted after them. 24 And the thin ears devoured the seven good ears. Now I told this to the magicians, but there was no one who could tell me what it meant. 25 Then Joseph said to Pharaoh, The [two] dreams are one; God has shown Pharaoh what He is about to do. 26 The seven good cows are seven years, and the seven good ears [of grain] are seven years; the [two] dreams are one [in their meaning]. 27 And the seven thin and ill favored cows that came up after them are seven years, and also the seven empty ears [of grain], blighted and shriveled by the east wind; they are seven years of hunger and famine. 28 This is the message just as I have told Pharaoh: God has shown Pharaoh what He is about to do. 29 Take note! Seven years of great plenty throughout all the land of Egypt are coming. 30 Then there will come seven years of hunger and famine, and [there will be so much want that] all the great abundance of the previous years will be forgotten in the land of Egypt; and hunger (destitution, starvation) will exhaust (consume, finish) the land. 31 And the plenty will become quite unknown in the land because of that following famine, for it will be very woefully severe. 32 That the dream was sent twice to Pharaoh and in two forms indicates that this thing which God will very soon bring to pass is fully prepared and established by God. 33 So now let Pharaoh seek out and provide a man discreet, understanding, proficient, and wise and set him over the land of Egypt [as governor]. 34 Let Pharaoh do this; then let him select and appoint officers over the land, and take one-fifth [of the produce] of the [whole] land of Egypt in the seven plenteous years [year by year]. 35 And let them gather all the food of these good years that are coming and lay up grain under the direction and authority of Pharaoh, and let them retain food [in fortified granaries] in the cities. 36 And that food shall be put in store for the country against the seven years of hunger and famine that are to come upon the land of Egypt, so that the land may not be ruined and cut off by the famine. 37 And the plan seemed good in the eyes of Pharaoh and in the eyes of all his servants. 38 And Pharaoh said to his servants, Can we find this man's equal, a man in whom is the spirit of God? 39 And Pharaoh said to Joseph, Forasmuch as [your] God has shown you all this, there is nobody as intelligent and discreet and understanding and wise as you are. 40 You shall have charge over my house, and all my people shall be governed according to your word [with reverence, submission, and obedience]. Only in matters of the throne will I be greater than you are. 41 Then Pharaoh said to Joseph, See, I have set you over all the land of Egypt. 42 And Pharaoh took off his [signet] ring from his hand and put it on Joseph's hand, and arrayed him in [official] vestments of fine linen and put a gold chain about his neck; 43 He made him to ride in the second chariot which he had, and [officials] cried before him, Bow the knee! And he set him over all the land of Egypt. 44 And Pharaoh said to Joseph, I am Pharaoh, and without you shall no man lift up his hand or foot in all the land of Egypt. 45 And Pharaoh called Joseph's name Zaphenath-paneah and he gave him Asenath daughter of Potiphera, priest of On, to be his wife. And Joseph made an [inspection] tour of all the land of Egypt.

It took two more years before the butler remembered Joseph, but finally he did. Pharaoh was so impressed with Joseph's devotion to his God that he promoted him from the pit to the palace immediately. I want to encourage you today. It doesn't matter where you are, what you are going through, or who you are dealing with, God is able to promote you from the pit to the palace right now! You were created with a purpose in mind. You are not a mistake. If God has ever spoken into your life, it shall come to pass. Who would have ever thought that Joseph, who was sold into slavery by his own brothers, because of jealousy; sold again to Potiphar down in Egypt by the Ishmaelites; thrown into prison by Potiphar, because of a lie his wife told; would eventually become the Governor of all of Egypt. Second only to Pharaoh himself. Stay focused, on fire, and full, and you will have the favor of God on you. The blessing is on you!

AOH CHURCH OF GOD

GOD'S ECONOMY

The blessing was on Joseph even in the prison. One day, because of an offence, Pharaoh put his chief butler and chief baker in prison, and they were assigned to Joseph. One night they both had dreams. Joseph noticed the next day that they were troubled, and he inquired as to their sad countenance. They said they had dreams and didn't know the interpretation. Joseph said, God is the interpreter, and asked them to share the dreams and he would pray to God for the interpretation.

Ge 40:1-41:1
40:1 And it came to pass after these things, that the butler of the king of Egypt and his baker had offended their lord the king of Egypt.
2 And Pharaoh was wroth against two of his officers, against the chief of the butlers, and against the chief of the bakers.
3 And he put them in ward in the house of the captain of the guard, into the prison, the place where Joseph was bound.
4 And the captain of the guard charged Joseph with them, and he served them: and they continued a season in ward.
5 And they dreamed a dream both of them, each man his dream in one night, each man according to the interpretation of his dream, the butler and the baker of the king of Egypt, which were bound in the prison.
6 And Joseph came in unto them in the morning, and looked upon them, and, behold, they were sad.
7 And he asked Pharaoh's officers that were with him in the ward of his lord's house, saying, Wherefore look ye so sadly to day?
8 And they said unto him, We have dreamed a dream, and there is no interpreter of it. And Joseph said unto them, Do not interpretations belong to God? tell me them, I pray you.
9 And the chief butler told his dream to Joseph, and said to him, In my dream, behold, a vine was before me;
10 And in the vine were three branches: and it was as though it budded, and her blossoms shot forth; and the clusters thereof brought forth ripe grapes:
11 And Pharaoh's cup was in my hand: and I took the grapes, and pressed them into Pharaoh's cup, and I gave the cup into Pharaoh's hand.
12 And Joseph said unto him, This is the interpretation of it: The three branches are three days:
13 Yet within three days shall Pharaoh lift up thine head, and restore thee unto thy place: and thou shalt deliver Pharaoh's cup into his hand, after the former manner when thou wast his butler.
14 But think on me when it shall be well with thee, and shew kindness, I pray thee, unto me, and make mention of me unto Pharaoh, and bring me out of this house:
15 For indeed I was stolen away out of the land of the Hebrews: and here also have I done nothing that they should put me into the dungeon.
16 When the chief baker saw that the interpretation was good, he said unto Joseph, I also was in my dream, and, behold, I had three white baskets on my head:
17 And in the uppermost basket there was of all manner of bakemeats for Pharaoh; and the birds did eat them out of the basket upon my head.
18 And Joseph answered and said, This is the interpretation thereof: The three baskets are three days:
19 Yet within three days shall Pharaoh lift up thy head from off thee, and shall hang thee on a tree; and the birds shall eat thy flesh from off thee.
20 And it came to pass the third day, which was Pharaoh's birthday, that he made a feast unto all his servants: and he lifted up the head of the chief butler and of the chief baker among his servants.
21 And he restored the chief butler unto his butlership again; and he gave the cup into Pharaoh's hand:
22 But he hanged the chief baker: as Joseph had interpreted to them.
23 Yet did not the chief butler remember Joseph, but forgat him.

As you can see, the blessing was on Joseph, even in the prison. This should encourage you today. No matter where you are, if the blessing is on you, God will use you for his glory. Joseph acknowledged God as being the one who gives interpretations of dreams. He took no credit for himself. He prayed to God for the interpretation and God gave it to him. He was concerned about the sad condition of others, and demonstrated a genuine attitude of concern by inquiring of their situation. Although Joseph had every reason to be sad, ungrateful, and pitiful, he was just the opposite. He was positive, motivated, and inspired to minister to others. I believe that this is another component of operating in God's Economy. You see God had given Joseph a glimpse of his destiny in his dreams while he was a boy, and he never gave up on his dreams. He never gave up on his promise. He never gave up on God.

AOH CHURCH OF GOD

GOD'S ECONOMY

We have already established that the concept of tithing was introduced by God before the law was given. Jacob had twelve sons, but God chose one, Joseph, for his own glory. He was sold into slavery by his brothers, and ends up in Egypt, at Potiphar's house. Potiphar saw the blessing on him and promoted him as overseer over his entire household. Potiphar's wife tried to seduce him, but he refused and ran away. She told her husband that he tried to seduce her and Potiphar got angry and put him in prison. Nevertheless, we see the blessing was on him, even in the prison.

Ge 39:19-23 And it came to pass, when his master heard the words of his wife, which she spake unto him, saying, After this manner did thy servant to me; that his wrath was kindled. 20 And Joseph's master took him, and put him into the prison, a place where the king's prisoners were bound: and he was there in the prison. 21 But the LORD was with Joseph, and shewed him mercy, and gave him favour in the sight of the keeper of the prison. 22 And the keeper of the prison committed to Joseph's hand all the prisoners that were in the prison; and whatsoever they did there, he was the doer of it. 23 The keeper of the prison looked not to any thing that was under his hand; because the LORD was with him, and that which he did, the LORD made it to prosper.

I find it interesting that he was not just placed in any old prison, but the prison where the king's prisoner's were bound. God was setting him up for his destiny. Many times we find ourselves in situations that appear to be unfavorable, but in actuality, God is positioning us for His favor. Many times we are seeking the promotion from man, but remember, promotion comes from God. If man promotes you, man can also demote you, but if God promotes you, no man can demote you. When the blessing is on you, you will be successful, no matter what you undertake. The Lord gave him favor with the keeper of the prison and he promoted Joseph over all the other prisoners, and whatever Joseph did, the Lord made it to prosper. I am reminded of two of my favorite scriptures:

Jos 1:8 This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success.

Ps 1:1-3 Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. 2 But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night. 3 And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.

AOH CHURCH OF GOD

GOD'S ECONOMY

Joseph was one of Jacob's twelve sons. He was very special to Jacob because he was Rachel's child. He loved Rachel more than any of his other wives. He met her when first coming to Mesopotamia. It was love at first sight. He asked Laban for her hand in marriage and he agreed to work for seven years for her. However, Laban tricked him and he ended up with Leah. Isn't it interesting how we reap what we sow. Remember how Jacob tricked his brother, Esau, out of his birthright? Now it comes back on him. He loved Rachel so much he agreed to work another seven years for her. She was unable to give him children at first, but finally the Lord blessed them to have children together. Joseph was the first born with Rachel, so he had a very special love for Joseph. Then, unfortunately, Rachel died during child birth when she had their second child, Benjamin.

Jacob favored Joseph over his other brothers. He gave him a special coat of many colors. He kept him very close to him. He sent Joseph to spy on his brothers. Joseph would bring back evil reports on his brothers. They developed a hate towards him and plotted to kill him. But God...had another plan and purpose for his life. His brothers ended up selling him into slavery and ended up in Egypt, at Potiphar's house. Potiphar was a very wealthy, prominant man in Egypt. He was an officer of Pharaoh, captain of the guard. He immediately recognized the blessing that was on Joseph, so he placed him over his entire household. Then Potiphar's wife begin to lust after Joseph, but Joseph was a true man of God.

Ge 39:7-10 And it came to pass after these things, that his master's wife cast her eyes upon Joseph; and she said, Lie with me. 8 But he refused, and said unto his master's wife, Behold, my master wotteth not what is with me in the house, and he hath committed all that he hath to my hand; 9 There is none greater in this house than I; neither hath he kept back any thing from me but thee, because thou art his wife: how then can I do this great wickedness, and sin against God? 10 And it came to pass, as she spake to Joseph day by day, that he hearkened not unto her, to lie by her, or to be with her.

This is a very important part of operating in God's Economy. Note that Joseph said, "how then can I do this great wickedness, and sin against God?" He not only saw this sin as being against Potiphar, but also against God. We must understand that God is omniscient, which means he knows all. The Word of the Lord declares:

Heb 4:12 For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart

I think we should take this even further. We should do it out of love and not out of the law. Remember, this was all before the law, so Joseph was operating out of love and not the law. When Jesus was asked which law was the greatest, he said:

Mt 22:33-40 And when the multitude heard this, they were astonished at his doctrine. 34 But when the Pharisees had heard that he had put the Sadducees to silence, they were gathered together. 35 Then one of them, which was a lawyer, asked him a question, tempting him, and saying, 36 Master, which is the great commandment in the law? 37 Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. 38 This is the first and great commandment. 39 And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. 40 On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets.

Ro 13:8-10 Owe no man any thing, but to love one another: for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law. 9 For this, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not kill, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness, Thou shalt not covet; and if there be any other commandment, it is briefly comprehended in this saying, namely, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. 10 Love worketh no ill to his neighbour: therefore love is the fulfilling of the law.

So you see, we should do whatever we do out of love and not the law.

I don't steal, because I love God.
I don't kill, because I love God.
I don't lie, because I love God.
I pay my tithes, because I love God.

AOH CHURCH OF GOD

Today I want to discuss how God's Economy flows from generation to generation as long as we are operating in it. We have established that Jacob was richly blessed because he made a vow to pay God a tenth of all he would bless him with. We have also established how the concept of tithing shows up even with Jacob's sons. He had twelve sons, but there was one, Joseph, that God used for his glory. Although Joseph's brothers hated him, because of preferential treatment, God had a special purpose for him. His brothers plotted against him and sold him into slavery. He ended up in Egypt, at Potiphar's house.

Ge 39:1-6 And Joseph was brought down to Egypt; and Potiphar, an officer of Pharaoh, captain of the guard, an Egyptian, bought him of the hands of the Ishmeelites, which had brought him down thither. 2 And the LORD was with Joseph, and he was a prosperous man; and he was in the house of his master the Egyptian. 3 And his master saw that the LORD was with him, and that the LORD made all that he did to prosper in his hand. 4 And Joseph found grace in his sight, and he served him: and he made him overseer over his house, and all that he had he put into his hand. 5 And it came to pass from the time that he had made him overseer in his house, and over all that he had, that the LORD blessed the Egyptian's house for Joseph's sake; and the blessing of the LORD was upon all that he had in the house, and in the field. 6 And he left all that he had in Joseph's hand; and he knew not ought he had, save the bread which he did eat. And Joseph was a goodly person, and well favoured.

Potiphar saw that the Lord was with him, and that the Lord made all that he did to prosper in his hands. Sounds familiar? That's exactly what happened to his father, Jacob, when he went to Laban's house. Laban saw that the Lord was with him. He knew that the blessing was on him. I believe that this is how God's Economy works, and I believe it still works today. You don't have to resort to playing worldly games to get ahead. You don't have to lie, cheat, steal, back stab, connive and scheme to be successful. Just operate in God's Economy. If you get something dishonestly, you will have to continue to be dishonest to keep it. The Word of Lord declares:

Mt 6:33 But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.

AOH CHURCH OF GOD

Jacob was richly blessed.

Ge 31:17-18 Then Jacob rose up, and set his sons and his wives upon camels; 18 And he carried away all his cattle, and all his goods which he had gotten, the cattle of his getting, which he had gotten in Padan-aram, for to go to Isaac his father in the land of Canaan

Ge 32:1-5 And Jacob went on his way, and the angels of God met him. 2 And when Jacob saw them, he said, This is God's host: and he called the name of that place Mahanaim. 3 And Jacob sent messengers before him to Esau his brother unto the land of Seir, the country of Edom. 4 And he commanded them, saying, Thus shall ye speak unto my lord Esau; Thy servant Jacob saith thus, I have sojourned with Laban, and stayed there until now: 5 And I have oxen, and asses, flocks, and menservants, and womenservants: and I have sent to tell my lord, that I may find grace in thy sight.

Ge 32:13-15 And he lodged there that same night; and took of that which came to his hand a present for Esau his brother; 14 Two hundred she goats, and twenty he goats, two hundred ewes, and twenty rams, 15 Thirty milch camels with their colts, forty kine, and ten bulls, twenty she asses, and ten foals.

Ge 36:6-7 And Esau took his wives, and his sons, and his daughters, and all the persons of his house, and his cattle, and all his beasts, and all his substance, which he had got in the land of Canaan; and went into the country from the face of his brother Jacob. 7 For their riches were more than that they might dwell together; and the land wherein they were strangers could not bear them because of their cattle.

As you can see, Jacob was richly blessed, all because he operated in God's Economy. He honored God by paying his tithe. You too can be richly blessed, even during this world economic down turn. God always provide for his people. He will always bless his people. He will always honor His Word. He promised that he would open the flood gates of Heaven and pour you out a blessing, that you won't have room enough to receive, if you pay your tithes. I urge you to do it today and watch God move!

AOH CHURCH OF GOD

God's Economy:

Ge 30:25-30 And it came to pass, when Rachel had born Joseph, that Jacob said unto Laban, Send me away, that I may go unto mine own place, and to my country. 26 Give me my wives and my children, for whom I have served thee, and let me go: for thou knowest my service which I have done thee. 27 And Laban said unto him, I pray thee, if I have found favour in thine eyes, tarry: for I have learned by experience that the LORD hath blessed me for thy sake. 28 And he said, Appoint me thy wages, and I will give it. 29 And he said unto him, Thou knowest how I have served thee, and how thy cattle was with me. 30 For it was little which thou hadst before I came, and it is now increased unto a multitude; and the LORD hath blessed thee since my coming: and now when shall I provide for mine own house also?

So you see Laban knew that the blessing was on Jacob all alone. Now Jacob has finally figured it out. Many are seeking the approval of man. Some are brown nosing and kissing up for a position. The Word of the Lord declares:

Ps 75:6-7 For promotion cometh neither from the east, nor from the west, nor from the south. 7 But God is the judge: he putteth down one, and setteth up another.

If man promotes you, he can also demote you. Stop trying to get validation and approval from man. Stop playing politics in the ministry. Stop bucking for a promotion and position from man. Let God elevate you, and no man can take you down.