Thriving In A Hostile World Joseph encountered tests many of us can identify with: betrayal, sexual temptation, the waiting game and the lure of power. It showed how God’s gift of character and courage can help us to thrive, be a blessing and live with excellence. Daniel and his friends showed us that while God may not always deliver us from the threat of hostility, he may deliver us and bring us through it. Esther showed us that even if you live in a hostile place, God has placed you here for this moment, a time just like this. Nehemiah showed us the impact of a life lived with a powerful mix of constant prayer and obedient, courageous action. Follow Me… Jesus said “follow me” into a hostile world and drive back the darkness. 1Pe 2 v9 But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.” Lk 4 v18-21 “The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to release the oppressed, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor…Today this scripture is fulfilled in your hearing.” What did Jesus do next? Children Of The Light. Eph 5 v8 “For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light”. If you want to shine, show up for others. Until you enter into the lives of lost people, you cannot disciple them. There is an element of dying to ourselves where our priorities begin to be influenced more and more by the heart of God. If you are willing to open doors for others, you will open doors for yourself. God may answer your prayers when you become the answer to someone else’s prayer for help. Kingdom builders stand strong in the face of hostility and let the Holy Spirit give them creative answers and let the power of God speak for itself. Kingdom builders show up and serve in a hostile world.