Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 46:05 — 21.1MB)
Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Android | TuneIn | RSS
Brother John continued his series on the Patriarchs with a study from Genesis 37 on the early life of Joseph. He brought out numerous practical lessons for us today, including the harmful effects of favoritism in family life. Joseph’s parents and grandparents were guilty of it, and it affected the family greatly.
In today’s study, Joseph experiences Jacob’s favor, is hated by his brothers for it, and finds himself first imprisoned in a dry well by his brothers. Then, he is bound and sent to Egypt to be sold to the highest bidder.
Meanwhile, back in Canaan, Joseph’s brothers allow their aged father to believe a wild animal has killed Joseph. They bloody the coat Jacob had given him, deepening his sorrow.
There is a lot of hurt in this story… Where is God in the middle of these events? We read Genesis knowing how things end up—Joseph didn’t have that privilege.
Trusting God without seeing the big picture is a faith thing! It’s like putting a puzzle together without having the picture on the box to show you the beauty of the finished picture.
Joseph obviously puts his trust in God! And God is the author of hope! We can see beyond the suffering of today to the bright promise of tomorrow as we put our trust in Him.
He has overcome the world!