The lives of the Old Testament saints are recorded and given to us as examples, to learn and grow in the knowledge of God and grace.
Here are a few lessons to be learned from the life of Joseph.
Soon after dreaming the dream of being in a noble position, Joseph started facing troubles. He escaped from being killed by his brothers and was sold to an Egyptian. Joseph had to face injustice caused by his brothers, then by Pharoh's wife, and then by the butler. Yet, we don't see Joseph murmuring with bitterness or complaining to God. He trusted God and remained faithful to Him wherever he was.
Trials should not make us doubt God. God knows what He is doing, as He sees the end from the very beginning. He is truly trustworthy.
Joseph worked in Pharoh's house in Egypt, yet he was actually serving God by doing an excellent job with the fear of God. We should also serve God in the workplace. We should work to please God and not man. We should work for God's glory and not just for promotion, name, fame or comfort. Even in prison, Joseph served God and that was evident in his conduct.
Joseph was content and thankful to God in whatever situation he was in. When He was in Pharoh's house, he did not complain and murmur about being sold.
Joseph had to wait many years in prison before his dream came to reality. God often make us wait while He works on our character, skills, abilities and prepares us for our good and His glory. Patience is something that most of us lack. We live in a world where everything is fast-paced. We expect God to work in the same way we do. However, God's ways are high above ours. His timings are always perfect and better than ours. Joseph had the fruit of patience and longsuffering.
When Joseph saw his brothers who tried to murder him, he did not jump to punish them. He exhibited God's forgiveness and love. Joseph had all the power to punish his brothers and send them without the food that they needed. Instead of sending them without food, Joseph left their money in their bags, along with the food.
To all true Children of God, He makes all things(including persecution and physical death) work for our eternal good. Joseph received the reward for his good works here on earth. His brothers who wronged him were humbled to bow before him. The rewards for our good works may not always be on earth but in heaven, where we will surely be rewarded for every good work we do here.
I pray that the Bible Lessons on the Life of Joseph would equip you to live for God's glory in all circumstances.
This Post: Joseph Bible Lessons
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