Prayer is a powerful tool that God has given us, it allows us to connect directly to God. Sometimes, life can get in the way of us talking to God. So it is important to remember to pause, and give God our complete attention.

Joseph's life was full of suffering. After his father's death, his brothers feared that he would seek retribution. But what the enemy means for evil God will use for good in our lives.

Joseph is reunited with his brother Benjamin. In the middle of their reunion, his older brother Judah shows how much he has changed thanks to God, and Joseph’s heart is moved. God’s capacity to change us and others should encourage us that no matter what we go through, God can transform it all for good.

Some of Joseph's brothers were scoundrels, thieves, and liars. Joseph offered forgiveness and brought them to feast with him at his table. Jesus offers us the same privilege...to be close to Him and the Father.

Joseph was called before Pharaoh to interpret the meaning of disturbing dreams. But God is the author of that interpretation, and he had walked with Joseph through a painful journey to get to this point. Your journey may be filled with struggle, but God can walk with you as you follow His dreams for your life.

Life's situations don't always make sense. In those moments, remember God's past faithfulness, reflect on His promises, and rest in God's love for you. Knowing God and His Word can really change how you respond to the painful moments.

Joseph's life was fraught with challenge. But at each moment, whether enslavement, imprisonment, or in authority and power...at each moment, God was with him and guiding him to his destiny. What does life look like when God is with you?

Joseph’s brother Judah lied to himself and created pain and misery in his life. When we lie to ourselves, we will double down on that lie and it leads to destruction. The truth of God’s word can break off lies that we tell ourselves, and give us true freedom in Jesus.

Whether you've walked through traumatic events or have had childhood hopes and dreams that haven't been realized yet, God was there. When we know and trust that God will use all things for the good (even when those things are painful), we can know that His plan for our lives will bring life and hope to those around us.

As we prepare to learn from the life of Joseph, it’s important to take a look at our lives to see how God wants us to grow throughout this series. This spiritual check-up involves looking at our habits, our relationships, and our minds and hearts...all to be closer to Jesus!