The Life of Joseph

Introduction:

Life is not perfect. Bad things happen to good people. Everybody makes mistakes, bad choices. The question is: “Can God bring good out of these?” Yes, He can! Read Romans 8:28. “And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.” NKJV This is clearly seen in the life of the Old Testament character, Joseph. It’s to his life we now turn our attention.

Body:

I. From Pasture to Pit

· Joseph told on his brothers. (Genesis 37:2)

· His father showed favoritism. (Genesis 37:3-4)

· Joseph’s dreams made matters worse. (Genesis 37:5-11)

· The brothers were so angry and jealous that they decided to kill Joseph. (Genesis 37:18-20)

· Reuben wanted to let him go, (Genesis 37:21-22) but he was stripped of his coat and thrown into the pit. (Genesis 37:23-24)

· What was Joseph’s reaction? (Genesis 42:21) He pleaded for his life.

· Then Joseph was sold into slavery. (Genesis 37:25-28) Note: Psalm 105:17-18 Things looked bleak.

II. From Pit to Prison

· Joseph was taken to the slave market and bought by Potiphar, an Egyptian official. He was blessed by God. (Genesis 39:1-6a) Joseph made the best of the situation. He was then tempted by Potiphar’s wife. He rejected her and was thrown into prison.

· Blessed by God again, Joseph made the best of a bad situation and was favored by the keeper of the prison. (Genesis 39:20-23)

· While in prison, Joseph correctly interpreted the dreams of the butler and the baker; but acknowledges that God is the actual interpreter. (Genesis 40:8)

· Then later Joseph interpreted the dreams of Pharaoh. [He had been in prison for twelve to thirteen years.] He again acknowledged that God is the source of the power to interpret. (Genesis 41:25, 32) He then offered advice to Pharaoh in regards to the dreams’ fulfillment. (Genesis 41:33-36) 

III. From Prison to Palace

· This made a powerful impression on Pharaoh. He chose Joseph to rule over Egypt. (Genesis 41:38-41)

· Joseph showed wisdom during the years of plenty and the years of famine. (Genesis 41:47-49, 53-57)

· Joseph was reunited with his father and brothers; and assured his brothers that he had forgiven them. (Genesis 45:5-11)

· Joseph told them that the evil they meant for him; God turned into good. (Genesis 50:15-21)

Conclusion:

Life can change quickly from good to bad. But we have to believe that God still operates in our world. (II Peter 2:9) “looking for and hastening the coming of the day of God, because of which the heavens will be dissolved, being on fire, and the elements will melt with fervent heat.” (I Peter 3:12) “For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, And His ears are open to their prayers; But the face of the Lord is against those who do evil.” NKJV God still loves us and cares for us.

Bobby Stafford 

 October 6, 2013