JOSEPH

 

     One of my favorite Old Testament characters is Joseph he was the son of Jacob who went from favorite son of Jacob to slave.  He then becomes a prisoner in Pharoah’s jail and then to Prime Minister of Egypt.  There have been movies about him and even a broad musical.  I thought it would be interesting to look at some of the characteristics of Jsoeph and see how they could actually be applicable to our lives.

     No matter who you are you are not immune from bad things happening in your life.  Joseph was a prince in Canaan.  Bad things happen to good people, you can either become bitter or better.  It your choice.  Stumbling blocks or stepping stones.

     Even bad things have a purpose.  Joseph through slavery, prison learned to trust God in a bad place.  Paul said all things work together for good is doesn’t mean all things are good.  We grow best in the hard times.

     You can flourish and be successful even in ungodly and difficult places.  Bloom where you are planted.  Joseph flourished in Potiphar’s house and in prison.  He knew how to adapt and grow.  Peter told us to grow in the grace and knowledge of the Lord.  Jesus promised to give us abundant life.  It comes when we least expect it.

     God is with you no matter where you go.  God was with Joseph and help him prosper.  Jesus reminded us that the Lord will never leave or forsake us.  Just because God seems silent that does not mean He is not working.  It just means we are not aware of it.  Most likely because we are focused on us not Him.

     Even bad things can be stepping stones when we have a godly view, right attitudes and see them as they are.  Joseph knew that he had and audience of one.  The Lord sees and is going to work things out for you well and his glory.

     Be faithful where you are until promotion comes.  I have seen this over and over again.  I knew of a young lady to was in a tough job situation, but she stayed positive and faithful and in time she was promoted and was an asset to that workplace.

     Life can change in a moment.  Joseph went from prison to Prime Minister in a day.  Be ready for the pleasant surprises they often come when you least expect it. 

     God will use the talents you have to work his will.  Joseph was wise, able to interpret dreams.  Your talents, skill sets, natural abilities should be available for God to use for the betterment of others. 

     Walk in forgiveness.  Remember you are not the judge.  Forgive immediately and reassure others you have.  Joseph did.  He forgave all who hurt him.  When you forgive you are not just freeing the person you forgive but more importantly yourself.   Forgiveness is a wonderful gift you give t yourself.  

     Remember God has a bigger plan in mind for you when you trust Him.  Joseph could have stayed in Canaan and lived a pretty good life, but God has something better in store.  God has something better in store for you today.  Be a Joseph and bloom where you are planted.  Understand that bad circumstances can tear you down or elevate you.  It just depends on your attitude and outlook.