Despite her many attempts to lure Joseph into sin, Joseph would not sin, But he refused and said to his masters wife, Behold, because of me my master has no concern about anything in the house, and he has put everything that he has in my charge. Dutripons Latin Bible concordance (Paris 1838) identified 16 people named Joseph in the Bible, 9 of whom featured in the New Testament: Joseph I. Joseph (Genesis). To most it would seem an absurd notionbut not to Job. Which god is the father of Jesus? He could have just had fun for a few years. Perhaps I see pride in him because I see it in myself and Ive seen countless others deal with it. Fortunately, God used that time to teach Joseph and help him grow. There are definitely times to take action and work for change, but there are also times when God simply calls us to wait. Mann, Thomas. Examples of Servant Leadership, Workplace. We have no idea how long Joseph labored for Potiphar as these events began to unfold. Because of this, the people in Egypt ate during the famine, and people came from all over the world to purchase the food during that time as well. Were on a mission to change that. They have some troubling dreams, and Joseph interprets them perfectly. Go deeper by registering for our course on the Story of the Bible. Dont give up on God. Believers and non-believers can see it as an illustration of the need to keep trying and persevere. Origin: The name Joseph comes from the Hebrew verb yasaf (to increase). Joseph did everything right, and still spent thirteen years as a slave or prisoner. We may never understand the work He is doing in our heart or recognize what He is preparing us for. The 'But God' overriding principle that changes lives. Joseph was lucky. I may not get it, I may not trust Him at times, and I certainly cannot understand it, but God does actually want the best for me. Of all his twelve sons, Jacob favored Joseph because he was the son of his old age (Gen. 37:3). He bragged to his brothers and parents about his prophetic dreams of power. Everyone Is Entitled To Second Chances: The way Joseph handled his brothers who had wronged him is yet another example of leadership that can be learned. I am not, in general, a very patient person. The prosperity gospel is an increasingly popular belief that those who love God, think positive, and work hard will receive material wealth and success. A cupbearer and a baker who work for Pharaoh also find themselves in prison. And the keeper of the prison put Joseph in charge of all the prisoners who were in the prison. Many of the great heroes of faith were young when God began working powerfully with them: David was likely in his teen How can you put others first when you think so highly of yourself? Edeh Samuel Chukwuemeka ACMC, is a Law Student and a Certified Mediator/Conciliator in Nigeria. He was insensitivehe didnt consider the impact of his actions on family members. WebGenesis 37. Some days, I remind myself that, while I am not necessarily enjoying whats going on with my new job, at least my brothers and sisters didnt sell me into this job or into slavery. Who needs leadership experience when youre smart or have an MBA? Now that its been almost 12 months, Im really hoping weve crossed the finish line. They approach him to apologize again and seek his grace and mercy. First, he sent wrong signals to Joseph about his position in the family over his older brothers. If we study their lives in Sacred Scripture, Jesus, Mary and Joseph offer us three important steps. Josephine is a female given name. Notice that there is no mention of time in verses 1-6. I am yours. Once again, despite being in prison, Joseph continues to honor God with his heart and actions. It teaches leadership as well as spirituality. What challenges did Joseph face, and what do you learn about him? The feminine form of the name Joseph, which is taken from the Hebrew name Yosef, meaning (YHWH) shall grow.. I didnt ask around dinner time like a normal kid, but rather I would ask as soon as I finished lunch. "I trust you, my God he whispered." Because of this, Pharaoh put Joseph in charge of preparing his nation for the years of want. With this in mind, it shouldnt come as a surprise to acquire several lessons and guidelines from Josephs life. I think I read in the Student Bible that it had to more with being naive and undiscretionary when he was a 17 year old boy. I just couldnt understand why He was doing some of the things He was doing. He had great dreams that made him feel good about himself. He constantly got thrown under the bus, and then responded by continuing to work with integrity for those around him. The second half of the book of Genesis tells the history of one family, beginning with Abraham, and following down to his great-grandchildren - the sons of Jacob. He was pacing in his soul. Here are five lessons we can learn from the life of Joseph, son of Jacob, leader of Egypt. After spending thirteen years as a slave or in prison, Joseph could have delayed responsibilities. However, as they were eating, a group of Ishmaelite traders came by, so they chose to sell him into slavery as a profit-making scheme instead. You miss the chance to grow in godly character and to demonstrate to God that you are expanding your understanding of and relying on the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ the instant you succumb to temptation based on lame reasons. And Joseph stored up grain in great abundance, like the sand of the sea, until he ceased to measure it, for it could not be measured (Genesis 41:47-49). WebJoseph's story covers 20 chapters, and in that considerable space Joseph receives less criticism and more praise than any of the other patriarchs, and probably than any other non-divine being in the Bible. It was the remembering that kept his hope alive and bitterness at bay. The next time you hear this story taught in church or read through during the Christmas season, resist the urge to hear it as commonplace. He continued working with integrity, but he had to wait for Gods timing to receive freedom. How do you see Gods work, and what do you learn about Him? He was the first son born to Jacob through Rachel, and therefore, he was his fathers favorite son. His brothers would love this if they knew. Joseph was rejected, betrayed and abandoned by his own family. The story of Joseph also reminds me that, even if the trials arent over, we will be ok. Because here is the good news: Just as God was with Joseph during his time as a slave and a prisoner, God will be with you during your hard times. Josephs godliness did not rescue him from false accusation and imprisonment. Every story contains instructive lessons about behavior, righteousness, and what it means to live by Gods Word, whether you are seeking a lesson for a kid, a young adult, or someone who is well past middle age. 0000010258 00000 n Article Images Copyright 2023 Getty Images unless otherwise indicated. He shook out the mat. All of them ultimately saw God's faithfulness to his promises, despite circumstances and their own failings. Nothing Hinders Gods Designs: By selling Joseph into slavery, Josephs brothers attempted to thwart Gods plan for his life; nevertheless, Gods purposes were only fulfilled. And perhaps, most important of all, humility takes time to learn. Relying On Gods Direction Will Help You get Ready For The Future: God gave Joseph the gift of dream interpretation throughout his life. From the time that he made him overseer in his house and over all that he had, the. God sent his Son to die and be raised in order to set his children "free indeed" (John 8:36). In another early text, The History of Joseph the Carpenter, which was composed in Egypt between the 6th and 7th centuries, Christ himself tells the story of his step-father, claiming Joseph was 90 years old when he married Mary and died at 111. Joseph did know his brothers at first sight, and wept several times in private. Recommended: Lessons From The Story Of Samson And Delilah. When Joseph arrived, they were not there. The dryness of the arid climate preserved bodies buried in shallow sandy pits, as in the image below. We appear to be able to instantaneously obtain our desired outcomes with simply the click of a button. Again, thanks for sharing. How did Joseph reveals himself to his brother? Joseph was the firstborn child of Rachel, who was Jacobs genuine love and one of his four wives. Jon Bloom serves as teacher and cofounder of Desiring God. In Greece, the female name Josephine is Iosifna and used mainly on the island of Crete. He could have sent every one of his brothers to death or slavery. 22 views, 4 likes, 0 loves, 2 comments, 0 shares, Facebook Watch Videos from RCCG Praise Tabernacle: SUNDAY 3RD SERVICE || 30TH APRIL 2023 Josephs story starts in Genesis 37 when his father, Jacob, gives him a special coat of many colors. They were free from bondage and ready for a new life in a new land. My mom will tell you that, growing up, I would ask about dinner plans every day. First, God is with us no matter our life situation. By using the lessons from Josephs life, we may overcome the obstacles in our own lives. The book of Genesis has quite a few stories about important people, but no one gets more time than Joseph. Theyre starving, and their father Jacob sends them to Egypt to buy grain. Belief In Gods Plan: Josephs total confidence in God is maybe the most important lesson to take away from his life. In regards to Joseph, here are some leadership qualities I admire in him: Joseph first demonstrated his other gifts of organization and management as a young man of seventeen, when he was tending his fathers flocks. In this article, well review the biblical story of Joseph and then discuss 5 strategies we can learn as servant leaders today from Josephs exemplary levels of patience. How was Joseph able to forgive his brothers? This is a very real issue today. Joseph had a lot of things going his way in life at first. I love this article! Joseph faced many of the same problems faced by all fathers, even today - trying to make a good living to support his family. He listened to his fathers instructions, and loved to obey God. 156 0 obj<>stream One must be willing to accept the Especially considering that he told everyone about a second dream where his whole family bows to him. He attracted Potiphars wifes attention by being young and attractive, and she attempted to seduce him. As Joseph responded to suffering with faith, meekness, and humility, God molded and shaped a leader. Its the perfect example of how many of us think yes! I also 100% agree on this telling his brothers about the dream did not justify their actions at all. As a young and handsome man, he drew the sinful attention of Potiphars wife, and she tried to seduce him. Most people know that Joseph was well-loved by his father Jacob, as evidenced by the gift of the many colored-coat. WebGod was with Joseph every step of the way. He covered his mouth to choke back his sobs. ! And while many Western christians today would say they dont believe the prosperity gospel, few of us would stomach the idea of suffering for thirteen years. Why Does God Compare Our Relationship with Him to That of a Bride and Groom? He has a plan, well and wisely ordered. His life became a powerful example of how a godly person can overcome adversities. All of our resources exist to guide you toward everlasting joy in Jesus Christ. He put them through painful tests, but those plans and schemes had a goal. At the first signs of trials or tribulation, I say to God something like, alright God, if there is a lesson I need to learn lets do it as quickly as possible so we can move on. Faith-fueled peace doused the anxious fire in Joseph's chest. Joseph could have used his power to bring vengeance. He rehearsed the stories of God that had filled him with awe as a child. When he was reunited with his brothers, he could say sincerely, And now do not be distressed or angry with yourselves because you sold me here, for God sent me before you to preserve lifeAnd God sent me before you to preserve for you a remnant on earth, and to keep alive for you many survivors. As a group they sell Joseph into slavery, but as individuals they deal with the following years and how they can make amends. b. If there is a problem, I want to solve it as quickly as possible. It is the ecology of these motifs that enunciates the theme: Gods providential work with and through Jacobs dysfunctional family, preserving it and blessing others. Im going to start a company and turn it into a Fortune 500 in three years! Genesis chapters 37-41 only tell the low and high points of Joseph's Egyptian slavery and imprisonment. And Joseph stored up grain in great abundance,like the sand of the sea, until he ceased to measure it, for it could not be measured. Despite our best efforts to explain the benefits of the medicine, he did not want it. The Egyptians believed that everybody had prophetic dreams. Joseph recognizes them instantly, but unsurprisingly they do not recognize him. Great leaders wash their peoples feet. The pharaoh calls for Joseph, who once again interprets the dream with wisdom. 1. All materials posted on the site are strictly for informational and educational purposes! God made stunning promises and then ordained time and circumstances to work in such ways as to make the promises seem impossible to fulfill. Many lessons can be learned from the story of Joseph and Potiphar. Closing Thoughts On The Story Of Mary And Joseph. All rights reserved. God had promised Great-grandfather, Abraham, a child by his barren wife. Later, Pharaoh had a confusing dream, and his servant told him to summon Joseph. He brought his whole family to be closer to him, and was finally reunited with his father once again. Doing what is right in Gods eyes, rather than mans ways, is always the right thing, even if there are negative ramifications. One of the household employees who witnessed Josephs act while he was imprisoned and later released and returned to serve the Pharaoh of Egypt was pardoned. 0000002079 00000 n Darkness had swallowed the light again. Rebekah trusted God's word. Joseph did not run or cower or cave. Joseph was still stuck. How then can I do this great wickedness and sin against God? (Genesis 38:8-9). Yet, as foolish as it seemed right now, Joseph could not shake the deep conviction that God meant to bring those dreams to pass. In todays sermon, we are going to learn how God did just that with the man called Joseph and why it is still relevant to us. More than likely He will begin to start you off in The book of Proverb or maybe not.I actually prayed that GOD would give me Wisdom Knowledge and understanding now at 75yrs GOD is Not finished with me yet!! It took Joseph 13 chapters (Gen. 37-50) and approximately 24 years (best guess from Bible scholars) to come to this place of He felt something crawl across his leg. 0000001557 00000 n Josephs second dream is about heavenly or spiritual matters. of What challenges did Joseph face, and what do you learn about him? Learn the Art Of Deferred Gratification: We may learn a lot about leadership from Josephs life, including the necessity to resist the lure of rapid fulfillment. But even before that, when Joseph was a slave in charge of Potiphars house or a leader in the prison, he maintained a steady patience while doing a great job. From the time that he made him overseer in his house and over all that he had, theLordblessed the Egyptians housefor Josephs sake; the blessing of theLordwas on all that he had, in house and field. We ended last week with a high point in the lives of the sons of Israel and Moses. Joseph could have become complacent or selfish or a big complainer. WebGod also had a purpose in Josephs sufferings for Josephs brothers and family. Doing what is right in Gods sight, rather than what is right in mans eyes, is always the proper thing to do, even if it has unpleasant consequences. Joseph was thereafter sold into slavery in Egypt. He still trusted in the Lord, although he must have felt doomed to spend his life in prison. 1. However, this favour was short-lived. Thank you may GOD richly bless you with the true and loving word of God, True Joseph was just like most teenagers even of today. Joseph resisted her repeated attempts to persuade him to sin. WebHow did the Holy Family deal with the challenges posed by the evils of the world? Glad you found encouragement from the article and thanks again for your feedback! 0000037599 00000 n He was around 50 when Jesus was born. Recommended: Best books every man should read. But then the cupbearer simply forgets. How simple it has been for us to disobey Gods commands, though? Nobody mandates that you must continue to be friendly with someone you have forgiven. Joseph will lead the way on preparing for the 7 years of famine, and he does an amazing job. Joseph, being seventeen years old, was pasturing the flock with his brothers. Distant screams let Joseph know another fight had broken out in the barracks. Good things happened, according to Genesis 39:3-4: His master saw that theLordwas with him and that theLord caused all that he did to succeed in his hands. He was indiscriminate. What steps do I take to do that? Youre not getting me, Laura, Bill had said. When trials and troubles come into your life, you may feel like you are getting beaten with rods and ground into powder, but as Isaiah 28 says, grain must be ground to make bread. Learn about good storytelling and the over-arching narrative in the Bible with this free course. 0000000016 00000 n There are no steps. He endured great hardship. What Every Christian Should Know about the Protestant Reformation. Would he ever again? 0000037023 00000 n Web5.5K views, 279 likes, 250 loves, 655 comments, 255 shares, Facebook Watch Videos from Joseph Z: A TERRIFYING END FOR THE WICKEDAnd YOUR GLORIOUS FUTURE! Thanks Laurie for the kind words and thoughtful response! Joseph then gives Pharaoh advice on how to respond to this fact, and Pharaoh responds by making Joseph his right hand man. He seemed about as far away from what those dreams foretold as he could be. 125 0 obj <> endobj The medicine was like a snake to him, and he fought it as hard as he could. Joseph has an unnerving lack of foresight, with most of his plans being conceived moments before theyre implemented. We cant take one small instance of sharing Dreams, and come to the conclusion that he was a very proud individual! Thank you for this article. She maintains a faith and lifestyle blog graceandgrowing.com, where she muses about the Lord, life, culture, and ministry. Joseph was aware that it was terrible to sin against Potiphar, but the fact that it was a sin against God made it even worse. I have no idea what my being in an Egyptian prison has to do with your purposes. Joseph can be trusted to the point that Potiphar left everything he had in Josephs care. But God was with him (10) and rescued him from all his troubles. But then one day his entire life changed. WebWhat challenges did Joseph face in the Bible? Because of the false accusation by his masters wife, his master relegated him to the position of a prisoner. 0000001989 00000 n In fairness, he was seventeen and most teenagers think the world of themselves. Fellowship is an irreplaceable means of grace in the Christian life and offers us two priceless joys: receiving Gods grace through the helping words of others and giving his grace to others through our own. I think in this season of life you need to wait on the Lord. Yes! The story of Mary and Joseph is an incredible display of faith, trust, and what God can do through normal people. b. Josephs dreams first get him into trouble, but his ability to understand them leads him to be chosen by the Pharaoh and to save the world. Also see: Advantages And Disadvantages Of Monopoly. Every single instance was an emotional fight. To all teenage men and women GOD sayslove not the world neither the thgs that r in the world . sin is sin. But that did not stop him from doing his duties. But they also appeared genuinely sorry. 0000021033 00000 n What can we learn from Joseph in the Bible? And as he sought to trust and obey God during that terribly lonely, desolate time, things went from bad to worse. For Joseph, even though it looked like horrible things were happening in his life, the challenges were a training ground to get where God wanted him to be ! Acknowledging our guilt; resting in His grace. If you believe that the posting of any material infringes your copyright, be sure to contact us through the contact form and your material will be removed! His brothers' envy of his father's favor turned homicidal when he inferred that he had God's favor as well. Image: Alinari/Art Resource, NY. Joseph was a man of strong conviction who lived out his beliefs in his actions. WebBy showing preference to Joseph, Jacob made two serious errors. And Joseph brought a bad report of them to their father. Thus, his personality has become more refined and wise. I plan to put it into practice. Great! But the truth is, He may not. That may seem like a long summary, but Josephs story isnt short. Because in the end, servant leadership isnt about receiving rewards for ourselves, it is about providing for others and their needs.
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what challenges did joseph face in the bible?