Courage – Genesis 37 – Feb. 22, 2026 | Kirk Austin

Short Summary

This message explores how believers can find courage in troubling times by looking at the life of Joseph (son of Jacob) in the Book of Genesis. Joseph faced betrayal by his family, injustice beyond his control, and circumstances that could easily have led to despair. Yet throughout these trials, Scripture repeatedly reminds us that “the Lord was with Joseph.” This sermon encourages believers to trust God amid family conflict, personal mistakes, and hardships beyond their control. When we remain faithful during difficult seasons, God’s presence not only sustains us but can also become a powerful testimony to others.

Key Themes / Takeaways

1. Courage in the Midst of Family Trouble

• Joseph experienced jealousy, hatred, and betrayal from his own brothers.
• Family conflict can be deeply painful, but believers are reminded that God is present even in those difficult relationships.

2. Fearful Situations Can Come From Our Own Choices

• Sometimes our troubles result from poor decisions.
• God can still use those circumstances to convict, correct, and redirect us when we repent and turn back to Him.

3. Some Trials Are Completely Beyond Our Control

• Joseph was sold into slavery through no fault of his own.
• Even in those moments, Scripture shows that God remained with him and worked through his circumstances.

4. God’s Presence Is Visible Through Faithful Living

• Others could see that the Lord was with Joseph.
• When believers trust God during hardship, it becomes a witness to those around them.

5. God Uses Difficult Seasons for His Purposes

• Trials do not remove God’s presence.
• Instead, they often reveal His faithfulness and bring blessing to others through our testimony.

Scripture References

• Book of Genesis 37
• Book of Genesis 39
• Book of Psalms 23
• Book of Isaiah 41
• Epistle to the Romans 8

Closing Application

Troubling times come in many forms—family conflict, consequences of our own choices, or hardships beyond our control. But Scripture reminds us that God does not abandon His people in the pit. Just as the Lord was with Joseph, He is with us through every trial. When we trust Him in difficult seasons, our courage and faith become a testimony that points others to Christ.