Change is Inevitable
Gen 41:14 Then Pharaoh sent and called Joseph, and they brought him hastily out of the dungeon: and he shaved himself, and changed his raiment, and came in unto Pharaoh.
Old raiment does not fit in the palace. There are old ways that must not be carried to your next level. There must be change and many elements of our lives that must change dramatically. We must not be afraid of change but rather see change as inevitable. Our ways of thinking and aspects of our character must change. For some location will change, our capabilities and capacities can also change … careers change … our aspirations changes. But what about raiment? Raiment represents the first impression we give others … that which is first concluded about us … our visible passion. We can begin to give a very different impression such that all who see us only desire to favor us.
Zec 3:4 And he answered and spake unto those that stood before him, saying, Take away the filthy garments from him. And unto him he said, Behold, I have caused thine iniquity to pass from thee, and I will clothe thee with change of raiment
Change of raiment also implies forgiveness … The prison garments of shame and sin are filthy. God has forgiven you so forgive yourself … not doing so is also pride. The devil uses sin to put us in prison and torments us down with memories. But … God causes our iniquity to pass from us … and clothes us with clean garments. Forgiveness is a very powerful lever for change. Rejoicing is another lever. You are entering a season of change that require you to release several old things you will not need – especially your attitude. How do you change your attitude? By allowing the Bible to renew your mind and developing and practising new thoughts and habits. For example … begin to pray for those who have hurt you … begin the habit of regular Bible study and praise. Choose to rejoice no matter the outcome … situations may be unpredictable but your reaction is your choice … choose new reactions ahead of whatever comes your way … learn new songs … begin to declare “no matter what comes my way – my life is safe in God … I cannot be a victim”
Expect change and expect it to favor you. Your expectations will not be cut off. Preparing for change is an act of faith … Joseph had a sure faith that this was an important transition. He prepared himself and his garments were changed. Your next level will not be permitted to embrace your old negative habits. Be positive. Embrace change joyfully.
Song.
I know that my Redeemer lives: What joy the blest assurance gives!
He lives, He lives, who once was dead; He lives, my everlasting Head,
He lives, triumphant from the grave; He lives, eternally to save;
He lives, all glorious in the sky; He lives, exalted there on high,
He lives to bless me with His love, And still He pleads for me above;
He lives to raise me from the grave, And me eternally to save,
He lives, my kind, wise, constant Friend, Who still will keep me to the end;
He lives, and while He lives I’ll sing, Jesus, my Prophet, Priest, and King,
He lives my mansion to prepare; And He will bring me safely there;
He lives, all glory to His Name! Jesus, unchangeably the same,
We are going higher – Hallelujah Amen – In the name of Jesus – Hallelujah Amen
Prayer: Lord, prepare me for the next level. Amen
The Songs of Joseph is an integration of encouragement scriptural devotions, prayers and a compendium of songs of mercy, salvation, new beginnings and victory. We can expect as we trust and obey that our end will indeed be ultimately glorious because God works His marvellous agenda. Be blessed as you read and sing along, daily. Edited by Bolade Apampa
