If we all think back to the story of Joseph, we can probably remember the Sunday school teacher that caused the story to be so real in our minds. I can still remember the pictures that were framed in my head by a lady named Frankie Dee Pearce. Frankie brought the story of Joseph to life for me when I was about 6 years old. She helped me envision his coat of many colors that he and his father were so proud of and, the hatred that his brothers had for him. I remember how she described the tragedies that befell Joseph and, his brothers lying to Jacob about how the wild animal killed his favorite son.
I guess that is actually what could have happened had it not been for brother Rueben pleading with the brothers for Joseph's life. You know Rueben intended to rescue Joseph out of the cistern and return Joseph back to his father, but he was not able to find the courage to convince his brothers that what they were wanting to do with Joseph was wrong. As I grow older I wonder if I were in Rueben's shoes, what would I be willing to do? Would I be willing to take a stand against something if it wronged a Christian or blood brother?
We know Joseph was sold for 20 shekels (approx. 8 oz.) of silver to a band of Ismaelites that took him to Egypt and sold him to Potiphar the Captain of the Guard as a slave. Things looked pretty bleak for Joseph, but God was with him and was blessing him! Potiphar put Joseph in charge of all he had, both in his house and in his fields.
Genesis 39:6 says that Joseph was both well-built and handsome. Potiphar’s wife set her eye on him and pursued him on more than one occasion. Since he would not sin against God or Potiphar, a bruised ego gave way to anger and lies and Joseph soon found himself in prison!
When we heard this story as kids, it was difficult for us to believe Mrs. Pearce when she told us that God continued to bless Joseph even while he was in prison. But that’s exactly what happened. Joseph interpreted the dreams of the baker and cup bearer which eventually open the prison doors to freedom. Shortly thereafter, Joseph was summoned by Pharoah to interpret his dreams. God blessed Joseph through a strange series of events resulting in him being promoted to second in command under Pharoah. During the seven prosperous and seven poor years which Joseph interpreted from Pharoah’s dream, he was in charge of Pharoah’s palace. I still remember Mrs. Pearce telling us that the “seven years of famine” were also part of God’s plan for Joseph and his family so that could all be in Egypt together and advance God's purposes.
I still remember Mrs. Pearce telling all of her students that we should be like Joseph. Even though he was disowned by his brothers, sold to strangers, and thrown into prison because of lies Joseph continued to believe and trust in God and what God had in store for his family. She stressed to us that no matter what hard times Joseph had to endure, he always believed God was with him and God would help him through every tough situation. Isn't that what we need to believe today?
May we continue to pray that we all strive to allow God to control opportunities and challenges in our lives for his glory just as Joseph was always willing to do.
Father, thank you for your love, grace, and mercy for your children. May we strive to be more like Joseph and allow you to work in all situations in our lives. We pray for situations that will produce patience, peace, and faithfulness in us for your kingdom.
In Jesus name we pray, Amen.
Rusty Rose
Stephenville, Texas
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