1. Today’s message: Stephen Brings His Case (part 2) Today’s text:Acts 7: 9 - 16

2. God’s Preferment “…God was with him…”  Jealousy and Envy  Slavery and Bondage  Do not receive the curse that others place on you  Bless those who curse you  Vengeance belongs to the Lord

3. God’s Preferment… “…God…rescued him… and granted him…”  Divine Estimation - Joseph God granted him wisdom and favor with the king

4. God’s Provision “…there was grain in Egypt…”  Difficult circumstances “…a famine…and great affliction…” Set the stage for a family reunion

5. God’s Provision “…Joseph made himself known…”  A Savior at last Know this, if there is famine and affliction in your life today God has already put into motion your preservation and deliverance

6. God’s Providence A proper burial A Divine requirement And without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is and that He is a rewarder of those who seek Him.” Hebrews 11:5-7Hebrews 11:5-7

7. Things to remember and practice Man’s wisdom will always be inferior to heaven’s desire. Do not settle for what others have said about you. Only settle for what God has said decided for you. Pastor, how can I be sure my famine and affliction will meet God’s preservation and deliverance? In the words of Winston Churchill, Never, never, never ever give up, keep going, keep believing, keep holding on, walk by faith and not by sight. There are many in our midst today that are living proof of God’s faithfulness and love. God’s greatest desire is that you walk with Him with a faith that is not dependent on any human or earthly form – only a simple childlike belief that He is who He says He is and He will do what He said He would do. This type faith will ensure you end up in the promised land.