what challenges did joseph face in the bible?

3a. Joseph did everything right, and still spent thirteen years as a slave or prisoner. They were afraid to approach him, but he said, Come near to me please (Genesis 45:4b). All of them ultimately saw God's faithfulness to his promises, despite circumstances and their own failings. Joseph had a lot of things going his way in life at first. Learn about good storytelling and the over-arching narrative in the Bible with this free course. Many lessons can be learned from the story of Joseph and Potiphar. GODS PART: I will trust Him and He will give me the strength I need. Leadership is developed. Is my father still living? But his brothers were not able to answer him, because they were terrified at his presence. I think in this season of life you need to wait on the Lord. Yes! This is the lesson I keep learning over and over again. 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. I am the oldest of seven children, and if I had a dream and told it to my family, no one wouldve hated me or sold me into slavery because of it. Required fields are marked *. And if you want to learn more about being a servant leader, make sure you check out our free ebook on Nehemiah: 15 Biblical Leadership Principles. Again, thanks for sharing. And then God moved. Joseph exemplifies this perfectly, and we would do well today to learn from him. So do not fear;I will provide for you and your little ones. Thus he comforted them and spoke kindly to them. Use me!". He shook out the mat. Because of this, Pharaoh put Joseph in charge of preparing his nation for the years of want. Simply stated, the 8th commandment teaches us that obtaining gain by ungodly means is evil. First, God is with us no matter our life situation. After all those years, Joseph forgave his brothers for their wrong-doing, even though they initially approached him in fear rather than repentance. After their father dies, Josephs brothers begin to worry again that Joseph will now take vengeance upon them. I need to wait on God. I would argue that the Bible does show it, but that can certainly be challenged. WebNature of God and Humankind. Now that its been almost 12 months, Im really hoping weve crossed the finish line. He was indiscriminate. In Genesis 45, Joseph was able to lavish forgiveness and mercy and the best of the land of Egypt (verse 18) to the same brothers who had betrayed him. In addition to at least one sister, Josephs family had ten elder brothers. What challenges did Joseph face in Genesis 39? It spans decades and fourteen chapters of the Bible. The keeper of the prison paid no attention to anything that was in Josephs charge, becausethe. 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. This sentiment is also true of Potiphars wife, and for times in the life of the modern believer. It honored God and gave Joseph freedom from bitterness. 0000001989 00000 n There will come seven years of great plenty throughout all the land of Egypt. This challenge focuses on; identity, favour, integrity, jealousy and forgiveness. At the moment, the largest Catholic center is the Vatican a city-state located in Rome. What God has planned for you will never be affected by the envy of others or their actual attempts to obstruct you. Last week I found myself pretty angry with God. But he spent at least 12 years there before he suddenly became Prime Minister. How did God lead Joseph and how did he respond? There are no steps. Introduction. He was given the responsibility to manage Potiphar household. There was no water to drink. He obeyed his father, seeking out his brothers miles away, in order to honor his father. Remembering these two themes, and learning from the Biblical example of Joseph, can bring believers closer to their Lord. WebWhen I say physically from sickness, from disease, from lack and want it means, it is the will of God for us to prosper in all areas of our lives. He showed excellent management ability as governor. Enter into the joy of your master" (Matthew 25:21). I have no idea what my being in an Egyptian prison has to do with your purposes. Joseph had a lot of things going his way in life at first. Patience is hard, but its great to hear that you can see God at work over time! Joseph just continued being righteous and faithful. This coat angers his brothers, and they sell him into slavery. And the keeper of the prison put Joseph in charge of all the prisoners who were in the prison. The resurrection of Jesus (Biblical Greek: ) is the Christian belief that God raised, God quickens and renews us by the Living Word, through and by Jesus himself, who came to heal the brokenhearted, It was not until the 5th century that all the different Christian churches came to a basic agreement, Who is perfecto in Under the Feet of Jesus? If you want to be a leader like Joseph, then it starts with one thing: stay close to God. 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. 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. Joseph also recognized this when he said to his brothers, God sent me before you to preserve you a posterity in the earth, and to save your lives by a great deliverance (Gen. 45:7). 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). But God was with him (10) and rescued him from all his troubles. They did not recognize the second-in-command of the most powerful nation in the world at that time as the younger brother they had sold into slavery decades earlier. I have truly been encouraged by this article. In fact, it is true of the whole of human history, what mankind intends for evil, the Lord intends for good, and for His plan. The Bible story of Joseph is an inspiring tale of how a young man rose from adversity to become one of the most powerful men in the world. Joseph was the firstborn child of Rachel, who was Jacobs genuine love and one of his four wives. Joseph dreaded the night in this foul Egyptian hellhole. Since his purpose was to prevent hunger in the known world at the time, God permitted Josephs suffering. We may never understand the work He is doing in our heart or recognize what He is preparing us for. If you want to show the kind of patience Joseph did during difficult times, then stay as close to God as possible. 0000037760 00000 n WebJoseph, Overcoming Obstacles Through Faithfulness. Laying back down he remembered how Father Jacob had been caught in his Uncle Laban's manipulative web for 20 long years. Joseph will lead the way on preparing for the 7 years of famine, and he does an amazing job. Joseph was scarcely more than a boy 17 or 18 years old yet he faced challenges that would daunt many grown men. Believers and non-believers can see it as an illustration of the need to keep trying and persevere. Love GOD with All your Heart mind soul and spirit. 1. There are several denominations in Catholicism: Catholics, Uniates, Armenian Gregorians, Greek Catholics, Roman Catholic Churches, adherents of the Roman Catholic Church, as well as other Protestant communities that are not part of the church. Jacob lived in the land of his fathers sojournings, in the land of Canaan. He put them through painful tests, but those plans and schemes had a goal. Article Images Copyright 2023 Getty Images unless otherwise indicated. Once again, these dreams are concerned with food, sustenance, and the earth: By interpreting this dream correctly, Joseph averts a famine and saves the people. In Greece, the female name Josephine is Iosifna and used mainly on the island of Crete. As he did with Joseph, God will provide for those who abide in him and obey him. Yet even in jail, the Lord was with Joseph and showed him steadfast love and gave him favor in the sight of the keeper of the prison (Genesis 39:21). It can be hard for any leader to truly be patient. When was the Bible put together as one book? I am studying it even more now. Joseph, therefore, approached this circumstance with caution and wisdom. Here is how Joseph responds: But Joseph said to them, Do not fear, for am I in the place of God? WebHow did Joseph face the challenges that came his way? How many people graduate college with aspirations to become Senior VP or CEO by the age of 25 or 30? 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. Yet in many other places in the Bible, God shows that pride goes before destruction! 1 LOVED AND HATED. During the seven plentiful years the earth produced abundantly. All rights reserved, Lessons From The Story Of Joseph You Should Learn: Top 7. Instead of murdering him, however, they sold him into slavery. Imagine the imprint this made on this young man! A shiver ran down his spine. He attracted Potiphars wifes attention by being young and attractive, and she attempted to seduce him. They were praising God and singing songs to Himuntil there was a slight problem. Was Father still alive? What challenges did Joseph face, and what do you learn about him? And the keeper of the prison put Joseph in charge of all the prisoners who were in the prison. We tried every trick in the books: bribery, hiding it in food or drinks, and we even had to force it down his mouth sometimes. Thank you for this article. However, this favour was short-lived. And yet, the reality is most of us need the practice. From the time that he made him overseer in his house and over all that he had, the. After a few more journeys to Egypt, bringing with them the youngest brother Benjamin at Josephs request, he revealed himself, and extended forgiveness to them. Ill share why the story has encouraged me, and why I think it can benefit any modern person going through a time of feast or famine. trailer How did Joseph applied his talent as a leader? The famine will consume the land,and the plenty will be unknown in the land by reason of the famine that will follow, for it will be very severe. 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. Also see: Advantages And Disadvantages Of Monopoly. He is a good Father, and He works constantly to heal our hearts. Most of the book of Genesis was taken up with the account of this young mans life. He was the first son born to Jacob through Rachel, and therefore, he was his fathers favorite Through his own values, self-control, compassion, and sense of purpose, he earned the trust of high officials, and even more importantly, he was found trustworthy by God, who was consistently blessed his leadership. Theyre starving, and their father Jacob sends them to Egypt to buy grain. Joseph refuses to betray Potiphar, and his wife gets jealous. There are definitely times to take action and work for change, but there are also times when God simply calls us to wait. Jacob knew that his sons did not like Joseph but had no idea just how much they detested him. One must be willing to accept the ATTENTION TO RIGHT HOLDERS! He could have just had fun for a few years. It was Josephs right under Old Testament law to have her stoned. Joseph rose to power as second-in-command to Pharaoh. Instead of keeping this to himself, Joseph lets everyone know. He was immaturehe didnt stop to think of the hurt that his actions could cause. The medicine was like a snake to him, and he fought it as hard as he could. Josephs ability to let God take the lead is a beautiful and encouraging moment that we can learn from. He did as the angel of God commanded him. Life may get easier here for a while, and it may not. I dont even recognize myself from only 3 or 4 years ago. He doesnt get it, doesnt trust my words, and cant understand why I would force him to take the medicine he hates. 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! It was hard to fight off the relentless hopelessness as he waited the escape of sleep. 4. Patience is a quality of loyalty. He was a compassionate man. Acknowledging our guilt; resting in His grace. Justice stated that he could have her killed. Joseph said to his brothers, I am Joseph! Joseph knew that sinning against Potiphar was wrong, but that it was even worse to commit the sin because it was offensive to God. He was proud and egoistic, ( Genesis 37:2; 37:5-7; 37:9-10 ). The sad part of this episode in Josephs life is that Potiphars wife slandered him and accused him of Your email address will not be published. Joseph as a king. WebGod was with him and prospered Joseph in everything he did. This is a very real issue today. While in jail, Joseph performed this act for servants in Pharaohs home, one of whom was pardoned and returned to serve the Egyptian leader. You have been faithful over a little; I will set you over much. In the narrative, just prior to this test, when Joseph had first met all of his brothers (but not identified himself to them), he had held a feast for them; the narrative heavily implies that Benjamin was Josephs favorite brother, since he is overcome with tears when he first meets Benjamin in particular, and he gives . Especially considering that he told everyone about a second dream where his whole family bows to 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. She was aggressive, with the Bible asserting in Genesis 39:10, she spoke to Joseph day after day.. The pharaoh calls for Joseph, who once again interprets the dream with wisdom. Which council established the canon of the Bible? Through a number of tests, he got them to confess their past guilt and misdeeds or wrongdoing. The last great pyramid Mummification People often associate Egypt with mummies. 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. She and her husband have lived all over the country serving their Lord and Savior in ministry. He was handsome. What Does Colossians 2:6-7 Teach Us about Our Faith Walk? Act 7:9-10 Because the patriarchs were jealous of Joseph, they sold him as a slave into Egypt. Nonetheless, forgiveness is a virtue. He did a great job and rose to the top position in each setting, but no one was going to let him out. Jacobs favorite son was Joseph, as most people are aware. In the end, Joseph was imprisoned after lying about him to Potiphars wife, who claimed he had harmed her. In fairness, he was seventeen and most teenagers think the world of themselves. Joseph was a man of strong conviction who lived out his beliefs in his actions. Key-verse for Life of Joseph: The Lord was with Joseph. Not only that, but we are promised an eternity without sickness, pain, or tears. He once dreamed eleven bundles of grain, each representing one of his brothers, bowed to his bundle. He still trusted in the Lord, although he must have felt doomed to spend his life in prison. So trust in Him, and lead well. 6. He was a boy with the sons of Bilhah and Zipah, his fathers wives. Recommended: Lessons From The Story Of Samson And Delilah. He forgave them, embraced them, and fed them. Unselfishly he offered to interpret the dreams of his two fellow prisoners, telling them that the knowledge came from God (see And God had promised Grandmother Rebekah that her older twin, Uncle Esau, would serve the younger twin, Father Jacob. That may seem like a long summary, but Josephs story isnt short. Its the perfect example of how many of us think yes! And then you sit tight.. Perfecto Flores Petras partner, a much older man who, What is the myth behind magpies? At Potiphars house, Joseph would have been terribly missing his family, his friends, his home and he would have been very hurt because of what his half-brothers did to him just recently. His timeline is different than mine. ! Read Matthew 2:19-23. They approach him to apologize again and seek his grace and mercy. Thats it! Joseph made three serious errors in judgment. 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. I can wait. Finally, things seem to be turning around. Joseph is my Bible hero. 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. WebJoseph just continued being righteous and faithful. Bethany Verrett is a freelance writer who uses her passion for God, reading, and writing to glorify God. He constantly got thrown under the bus, and then responded by continuing to work with integrity for those around him. and the plenty will be unknown in the land by reason of the famine that will follow, for it will be very severe. Regardless of what the future brings, however, Im slowly feeling more equipped to deal with the challenges. 0000001899 00000 n In this one, the sun, the moon and the stars were bowing down to him. With this in mind, it shouldnt come as a surprise to acquire several lessons and guidelines from Josephs life. Distant screams let Joseph know another fight had broken out in the barracks. Notify me of follow-up comments by email. How did Joseph reveals himself to his brother? Joseph recognizes them instantly, but unsurprisingly they do not recognize him. I must, however, disagree on one major point. Here are five lessons we can learn from the life of Joseph, son of Jacob, leader of Egypt. She has a blog on graceandgrowing.com. Who needs leadership experience when youre smart or have an MBA? Jacob trusted God's word. Day after monotonous Why was Joseph successful in everything he did? 0000001694 00000 n Joseph exemplified authentic leadership in practice and through years of life-changing hardship. Pharaoh assigned Joseph the task of preparing his country for the years of famine as a result. So the warden put Joseph in charge of all those held in the prison, and he was made responsible for all that was done there. 0 OUR PART: I will do what I can to not fret and to find strength in the Lord, to move forward and not give up. He continued working with integrity, but he had to wait for Gods timing to receive freedom. This is not just a Bible story; Joseph was a real-life person like you and like me. What is the theme of the story of Joseph? Im ready, lets go!. Josephs godliness did not rescue him from false accusation and imprisonment. In the storms of life, in the darkest moments, cling to Gods promises, knowing His sovereign plan involves the Valley of the Shadow of Death (Psalm 23:4), but He is with His children. 0000011114 00000 n One principle that we can identify from Genesis 39:1112 is that if we remove ourselves from tempting situations, then we will have greater ability to resist temptation. He was handsome. Faith in God's future grace for us is what sustains us in those desperate moments. He is also a Developer with knowledge in HTML, CSS, JS, PHP and React Native. Our lives have become so much more convenient thanks to technology that we now feel entitled to the pleasant things in life. Then Joseph said to his brothers, Come close to me. When they had done so, he said, I am your brother Joseph, the one you sold into Egypt! Fists to his forehead he pleaded again with God in the dark for deliverance. But God does not want us to miss the largely silent, desperate years Joseph endured. So it was not you who sent me here, but God (Genesis 45:5&7-8a). Joseph refused to stand in judgment of them and assured them that they were forgiven. He doesnt respond with bitterness, but continues to work with integrity. 0000000016 00000 n While most people will not be the leaders of great countries or mighty empires, Joseph walked with the Lord, and his character - the virtues he lived by - are attainable for the believer who walks with the Lord. I also 100% agree on this telling his brothers about the dream did not justify their actions at all. Ive heard people in the past say, I was going through some struggles and knew that God wanted to teach me something, but I was too stubborn to listen or learn., Not me. Proud member They have some troubling dreams, and Joseph interprets them perfectly. There will come seven years of great plenty throughout all the land of Egypt, but after them there will arise seven years of famine, and all the plenty will be forgotten in the land of Egypt. 0000002224 00000 n Jacob's smile filled Joseph's mind. b. Fear of God and Faithfulness to God. Even though at times it feels impossible to believe, if I honestly think about it I know that God has been growing me tremendously. 0000021595 00000 n Foreshadowing the undeserved grace that Jesus would bring centuries later, Joseph did not hold a grudge, ready and waiting with open arms, calling for those who needed forgiveness to accept it. How can you put others first when you think so highly of yourself? Throughout his life, God blessed Joseph with the ability to interpret dreams. Clearly I can do better than whoever is in charge now, right? The name is also found in the New Testament as the husband of the Virgin Mary and the earthly father of Jesus.

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