Focus Verses: Genesis 41: 37-41
37 So the advice was good in the eyes of Pharaoh and in the eyes of all his servants. 38 And Pharaoh said to his servants, “Can we find such a one as this, a man in whom is the Spirit of God?”
39 Then Pharaoh said to Joseph, “Inasmuch as God has shown you all this, there is no one as discerning and wise as you. 40 You shall be over my house, and all my people shall be ruled according to your word; only in regard to the throne will I be greater than you.” 41 And Pharaoh said to Joseph, “See, I have set you over all the land of Egypt.”
This week my son, Caleb, graduated from high school. In America, this time of year, there are many graduation ceremonies for the completion of studies. When we see someone graduate it is the result of hard work that has been done.
In the book of Genesis we have the story of a man who graduated after a lot of hard work. Joseph had to pass many tests before he could graduate. Here are some of the tests that came to Joseph: He had to overcome the hatred of his brothers. He was exposed to sexual temptation, and then punished for doing the right thing. He was sent to prison for a long time, and forgotten by those he helped. As you read Joseph's story in Genesis 41, notice what he did in each test. His positive response was a step forward. He didn't spend time asking God why this was happening. Those who met Joseph along life's journey knew that God was with him.
What matters is not so much the events or circumstances of life, but how you respond to them. With God's help, any situation can be used for good, even when others intend it for evil. So with the story of Joseph we see him go from slave, to graduating, to the second most powerful person in the world. God will hold a graduation ceremony for each one of us that has been faithful to Him. It's up to us if we want to be a part of God's graduating class. If you want to read the entire story of Joseph it is found in Genesis 37-50.
Bobby Johnson
Interlocking Ministries
No comments:
Post a Comment