What to do when the dream seems impossible

This summer, we’ve been walking through the story of Joseph, Abraham’s great-grandson, and learning what it means to trust God when life doesn’t look like what He promised. Joseph’s journey takes us through betrayal, imprisonment, and hardship, yet God’s faithfulness shines through every twist and turn.

A Dream That Seemed Far Away

Early in life, Joseph received incredible dreams from God — dreams that seemed impossible in light of his reality. Betrayed by his own brothers, sold into slavery, falsely accused, and thrown into prison, it looked like God’s promises would never come true.

Yet Genesis shows us a crucial truth: God is always at work, even when our circumstances don’t match His promises. Joseph’s life reminds us that God’s timing is perfect, even when it doesn’t make sense to us.

Reflection: When life feels unfair or delayed, can you trust that God is still working behind the scenes?

God’s Timing: Different From Ours

We often measure life in moments, minutes, and days, but God works in years, decades, and generations. Scripture reminds us:

• 2 Peter 3:8 – “A day is like a thousand years to the Lord, and a thousand years is like a day.”

• Galatians 4:4 – Jesus came “at the proper time,” perfectly aligned with God’s long-term plan.

• Psalm 139:16 – Every day of our lives is already recorded in God’s book.

Joseph’s story teaches us that God’s delay is not rejection. He sees the bigger picture, orchestrating life over time to accomplish His good purposes.

Reflection: Are you letting current struggles alter your view of God’s faithfulness?

Seeing the Bigger Story

Joseph’s perspective at the end of his life is profound:

Genesis 50:20 – “You intended to harm me, but God intended it all for good. He brought me to this position so I could save the lives of many people.”

Every hardship Joseph endured was part of God’s plan to save not just his family, but generations to come — ultimately pointing to Jesus. His story reminds us that:

• God can turn betrayal and pain into blessing.

• Our struggles are never wasted; they are threads in God’s larger story.

• Faithfulness requires patience, trust, and perseverance.

Reflection: Could your story, like Joseph’s, be less about you and more about God’s goodness revealed over time?

Moving Forward Together

Joseph’s story reminds us that God is good, faithful, and working in every season of our lives. Even when life is confusing, painful, or delayed, the story isn’t over. God is writing the final chapters, and we get to be part of His ongoing plan.

If you missed any part of the series or want to revisit a message, you can catch up on all the sermons here: Delta Church Sermons.

— Ashley & Mike