But as for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good, in order to bring it about as it is this day, to save many people alive. – Genesis 50:20
For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future – Jeremiah 29:11
Introduction
The Bible contains all of the examples and answers we need to live our lives while we are on this earth. One great example is the life of Joseph. Joseph was a man of integrity, a man of faith and man who followed after the heart of God.
The act of his brothers selling him was an evil act. However, as a result of that act, something good came out of that in that Joseph was able to save the Israelites from dying of famine.
Some of you may have been terminated from a job. However, most times it is a good thing as it forces you to reflect on your life and pursue your passion. Some people may have successfully plotted evil against you. Rest assured, God will turn around that situation for good.
A man of integrity
Potiphar’s wife seduced Joseph but Joseph ran away because he knew it was inappropriate for him to sleep with his boss’ wife as it was a wicked thing and sinful act to do. How many of you would run away from a woman that seduce you? Not many of us. We would give in and keep it a secret between you and that woman. The woman may get pregnant and you may be the father and no one else knows. That one-night stand may end up becoming a long-term relationship.
However, Joseph was not that type. Joseph was a man of God and a man of integrity and he refused to interfere with his destiny by doing something contrary to the word of God. Had he slept with Potiphar’s wife, I am quite sure the outcome of his life would not have been the same because eventually the truth would have come out and who knows what would have really happened to him and the Israelites.
A man who trusted God
Joseph was a stranger in a foreign land. He had no family there. He must have been very lonely and homesick many times but he trusted God and remained faithful to God.
Joseph was also in prison for some years but he continued to put his trust in God. He even interpreted dreams for the cupbearer and baker but the cupbearer forgot about Joseph for more than 2 years (the baker was not around as Pharaoh hanged him which lined up with Joseph interpretation of his dream). However, one day Pharaoh had a dream and no one was able to interpret it. Finally, the cupbearer remembered Joseph and Joseph was able to interpret the dream correctly and was released from prison.
Some of you are strangers in a foreign land and some of you feel like that you are in prison for some of the things that you are going through. One day you will be released form that prison so continue to put your trust in God like Joseph. What you are going through is a journey to your final destination. Be patient.
A man who prospered because of God
The Lord was with Joseph and because the Lord was with Joseph, Joseph became very successful. In fact, Potiphar was blessed because of Joseph relationship with the Lord. Joseph was in charge of his household. When Joseph was in prison, he was also in charge of those held in prison. When Joseph interpreted the dreams for Pharaoh, Joseph was placed in charge of the land of Egypt. In fact, he was in charge of the palace and orders had to go through Joseph. Success followed Joseph wherever he went and whatever he did.
God is also with you and despite the harm you may encounter, it is not God’s plan for you to have harm but rather it is his plan for you to prosper. Just stay with God and see the plans he has for you.
A man who forgave
Joseph had every right to be upset with his brothers as he lost out on his relationship with his father and his brother Benjamin. He was sold as a slave. He was thrown in the pits. However, he forgave his brothers. His brothers did not expect Joseph to forgive them. Even after Jacob die in Egypt, his brothers thought that Joseph would turn his back on them and treat them mean but Joseph did not for he knew his purpose. Forgive those who treat you mean.
A man who knew his purpose and saw a bigger picture of his life.
Joseph saw a bigger picture of his purpose in Egypt. He knew his purpose was to save the lives during the seven years of famine.
Many of you have suffered so much and you feel like God has forsaken you. Remember the story of Joseph. Stay focused and try to comprehend why you are going through what you are going through. Jesus too suffered while he was on earth. He died a painful death for us but he knew his purpose. He knew he would rise again in three days. You too will rise up out of your situation. Know you have a purpose to fulfill.
Conclusion
The life of Joseph is such a great example to embrace. It is a great learning lesson and a reminder that what the Devil meant for Evil, God will turn it around for good. Joseph was sold as a slave but in the end became the Governor saving the lives of many.
You may be focusing on the current situation you are in and all the wrong people have done to you. Look beyond these situations knowing that something great is about to take place in your life.