Rags to Riches

The title of the message is Rags to Riches. That expression carries the idea of a sudden change – of a person's life being quickly transformed for the better. One minute, they are poor and then bam something happens that quickly elevates them to incredible riches. You could call it a promotion, or advancement, but today I am going to use the term exaltation.
We will consider three such exaltations today and keep in mind that these exaltation are all brought about by God Himself.

1. Exaltation of Joseph - Genesis 41
   God has brought about an incredible turn of events! In one chapter, Joseph has gone from an unknown Hebrew slave to the second most powerful man in Egypt and the most sought out man in the whole world!
   The neck that once wore shackles of iron now bears a chain of gold. The feet which were bruised from chains, now ride around in a chariot. This young man who for 13 years had orders barked out to him, is now the one giving commands. He who repeatedly had to bow before his masters, is now the one to whom everyone bows.
   -from rags to fine linens / from prison food to the best meals in Egypt / from attending others to having his own servants / from living in a dark damp cell to a suite in the palace! From prisoner to prime minister of Egypt!
   This is an incredible exaltation that God has brought about.
2. Exaltation of helpless, enslaved sinners - Ephesians 2:1-10
   If you are a Christian today, you have your own rags to riches story.
3. Exaltation of Jesus Christ - Philippians 2:6-10
   As we consider these exaltations, I trust our hearts are filled with love and praise for the God who exalts! He is so gracious! He is so powerful!