Parallel Lives--Paramount Lessons

Happy St. Patrick's Day, everyone!

I see a beautiful parallel in the lives of Joseph and Patrick.
Both went from being beloved sons to being slaves in a foreign land.
Both had dreams from God.
Both endured a long period of suffering (Joseph--13 years; Patrick--6 years).
Both were still in their youth when they had to face trials (Joseph--17; Patrick--16).
Both trusted God for Who He is even when they didn't understand what God was doing.
Both chose to obey God even in the midst of difficulties.
Both rested/found comfort and strength in God's presence, power, and provision.
Both forgave their offenders and did not have any bitterness against them.
Both showed God's love and compassion towards people, including their enemies.
Both hearts were healed in such a way that they were able to live in the present without being ruled by the pain of their past.
Both were faithful servants of God.
Both neither gave up nor complained.
Both completely surrendered their lives to God and God gave them success.
Both bore much fruit for God's glory in the lands of their affliction.
Both were used mightily by God to save lives (Joseph--physically; Patrick--spiritually).

"You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives." Genesis 50:20

"Joseph is a fruitful vine, a fruitful vine near a spring, whose branches climb over a wall. With bitterness archers attacked him; they shot at him with hostility. But his bow remained steady, his strong arms stayed limber, because of the hand of the Mighty One of Jacob, because of the Shepherd, the Rock of Israel, because of your father's God, Who helps you, because of the Almighty, Who blesses you." Genesis 49:22-25a

There's so much we can learn from these two great men of God. Trust and obey; there's no other way! Their lives clearly demonstrated that affliction is never an excuse to not trust and obey God. Age isn't, either. Don't ever give up; God never gives up on you! Remember...no matter what you're going through, God is with you and for you! God sees the whole picture of our lives while we only see what's going on here and now. Keep being faithful and walking by faith...come what may!

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight. Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord and shun evil." (Proverbs 3:5-7) These verses pretty much sum up their lives. May it be true in our lives as well!

This post is linked up with Faith-filled Friday @Beholding Glory, Spiritual Sundays, Sharing His Beauty @The Beauty in His Grip, Playdates with God at The Wellspring, "Hear It, Use It", and Inspire Me Monday @Create With Joy.