1. There’s a PLOT for the pit There’s a plotline that led to the pit, and it didn’t start with his brothers. Jesus says this about the devil in John 8: “He was a murderer from the beginning.” Ephesians 6:12 reminds us that “our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.” So even though Joseph and his brothers are now entwined in a dark web of abuse and exploitation, Joseph understands that the real battle isn’t even against his abusers. 2. There’s PAIN in the pit The pain in the pit is real. It hurts and while we don’t outgrow getting hurt, it is something that, as Christians, we will outlive! Hebrew 4:15 tells us that “we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses.” 3. There’s a PURPOSE from the pit Romans 8:28 says that “We know that God works all things for good for those who love Him and are called according to His purpose.” Your pit, your pain, your suffering might be the precursor to your purpose. Most of all, the purpose from the pit is that it helps us look forward and upward. It makes us yearn for the kingdom which you are created to live in for all eternity. Revelation 21:3b-5 “Look! God’s dwelling place is now among the people, and he will dwell with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. ‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death’ or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.” He who was seated on the throne said, “I am making everything new!” Then he said, “Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true.”