The life story of Joseph is very important. It occupies most of the last 14 chapters of Genesis. Joseph was the link between Israel as a family and Israel as a nation. Only 70 people went down into Egypt at Joseph's invitation but over two million left there in the Exodus 400 years later. But we can also identify with him personally in many of his true-to-life situations and temptations. As a teenager he was tested severely when he tried to share his God-given visions with his own family. Even his father's special love for him seems to have hindered rather than helped. Then he was tempted frequently in his place of employment, a sad story with a traumatic ending. Much later he moved into an upper-income bracket and a place of enormous power. Many men have succumbed to the temptations which come with such a position. Each of these situations can be the experience of many Christians today and are still as dangerous as they were back there in Joseph's day. As you read the story of Joseph's teenage dreams, what did you think? Would he have been better off to keep quiet about what God was revealing to him? It is sometimes easy isn't it, to alienate our own family when telling them about our spiritual experiences if they are not believers. They may not understand and barriers can be built up which may take a long time to break down. What was the root of the brothers' problem? Jealousy? But no matter how his brothers treated him, Joseph did not retaliate. Even as a teenager he seems to have had a special link with God. Joseph knew what it was to trust him, although the way ahead with its ultimate fulfillment of his dreams was not clearly seen. All he knew was that God was in control of his life and circumstances. Can't we take that same position today? I am trusting Thee Lord Jesus, Thou alone shalt lead. Every day and hour supplying All my need. Frances R Havergal. |
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