Stephen Davey continues his series on the life of Joseph, exploring the Jacob temperament and how it relates to our own lives. He examines how Jacob's constant reiteration of life's disappointments and refusal to accept divine perspective can lead to a lack of trust in God. Davey also discusses how God's goodness can bring about repentance and how behind harsh discipline is a heart of love. He uses the story of Joseph and his brothers to illustrate these points and encourages listeners to persist in trusting God, even in the face of difficulty.

Joseph's greatest test was not adversity, but prosperity, as he rose from prisoner to prime minister. He demonstrated integrity by giving God the credit and acknowledging His glory, even in the midst of abundance. This is a warning to believers to beware of the elimination of faith and the weakening of character that can occur when we prosper, and to remember that it is God who gives us power to make wealth.

Joseph, a young man sold into slavery, faces temptation in the form of his master's wife, who repeatedly tries to seduce him. Despite being in a position of power and anonymity, Joseph refuses to give in to his desires, citing his commitment to his master's trust, his own character, and his relationship with God. His refusal leads to his imprisonment, but God is with him even in the prison cell, giving him favor and responsibility. The story of Joseph teaches us that resisting temptation may not bring immediate rewards, but it is essential for living a life of personal purity and integrity.

Giving that honors God carries the element of eagerness and submission, translating into faithfulness, not because God demands it, but because one wants to please Him. The attitude of heart matters more than the amount given, and a cheerful giver is one who gives because they can't wait to give to Christ.

When dealing with unrepentant sinners, churches must balance love and discipline, following biblical guidelines to restore fellowship and protect the body. Leaders must confront sin, but also offer restoration and reconciliation, demonstrating the loving response of concern for God's best. Church discipline is a crossroads experience, where individuals choose between union with sin or union with the assembly, and leaders must navigate the complexities of confronting sin while maintaining a loving and non-judgmental attitude.