Joseph's challenges made him strong

Genesis 37:26 And Judah said unto his brethren, What profit is it if we slay our brother, and conceal his blood?

 Joseph, the son of Jacob, is our subject of discuss today. His inspiring journey is chronicled in the book of Genesis. Despite facing betrayal, slavery, and imprisonment, Joseph's faith and unwavering trust in God enabled him to rise above his circumstances and become a shining example of strength, resilience, and divine providence.

In Genesis 37:26, we find Joseph's brothers plotting against him out of jealousy. They stripped him of his coat of many colors and threw him into a pit, planning to sell him into slavery. This act of betrayal and abandonment was the beginning of Joseph's challenges. However, we also see that Joseph was a dreamer. God had given him dreams and visions of greatness, which he shared with his family. These dreams stirred up jealousy and resentment among his brothers, but little did they know that those dreams were a glimpse of God's divine plan for Joseph's life.

Just like Joseph, we are often confronted with challenges that threaten to overwhelm us. However, it is during these moments of difficulty that our true character is revealed and our faith is tested. Let us explore three key challenges that Joseph faced and how he emerged stronger from each one.

Joseph's brothers sold him as a slave to a passing caravan, and he was taken to Egypt. Imagine the sense of abandonment and the heartache he must have felt as he was separated from his family, his home, and everything familiar to him. Yet, even in the midst of this great adversity, Joseph did not lose faith. He remained steadfast and relied on God's presence in his life.

When we face betrayal or unjust treatment, it is natural to question God's plan. But remember, God's plan often unfolds in unexpected ways, and even in the darkest moments, His light shines brightest.

As Joseph served in Potiphar's house, he faced another significant challenge. Potiphar's wife tried to seduce him, but Joseph remained faithful to God and resisted her advances. His commitment to righteousness came at a great cost, as he was falsely accused and thrown into prison. Yet, Joseph's character remained unblemished. He did not allow bitterness or resentment to take root in his heart. Instead, he continued to trust in God's faithfulness.

Temptations and trials are inevitable in our lives, but how we respond to them determines our strength of character. Let us take inspiration from Joseph's example and remain steadfast in our commitment to righteousness.

While in prison, Joseph encountered two fellow prisoners who had dreams. Through God's wisdom and favor, Joseph accurately interpreted their dreams, which ultimately led to his release from prison and an opportunity to serve Pharaoh. God elevated Joseph to a position of authority, making him second in command over all of Egypt. Through the challenges he faced, Joseph's God-given gift of interpreting dreams was honed and utilized for a greater purpose.

Sometimes, the challenges we face are not merely for our personal growth, but they are stepping stones to fulfill God's greater purpose in our lives. Let us hold firm our faith in God no matter the trials we may face. God's power will help us to com out stronger. 

God bless you.. 

Prayer key:

1. Lord, thank you for the blessing of today in Jesus Christ name.

2. Lord, in all the challenges in going through, grant me the grace and power to come out strong and stronger in Jesus Christ name.

3. Lord, help me not to give up in life in Jesus Christ name.

4. Thank you Lord for answered prayers in Jesus Christ name. Amen.