Joseph and the Hand of God

Death seems to be one of those events of life that brings with it change, to say the least, and often crises! Jacob and Joseph have both died, so the natural question becomes, "Now what?"

Jacob knew that he was facing death. Hebrews 11:21 say, "By faith, Jacob, when dying, blessed each of the sons of Joseph, bowing in worship over the head of his staff." What blessings are you passing on as you face the reality that life is fragile?

Israel (Jacob) was faced with decisions that would involve significant change. If God were to guide him, three things would be essential: worship, relationship, and reliance.

How can we make sure that we are experiencing real change? We can submit to God's discipline, admit our sin, and -- with the help of the Holy Spirit -- quit sinning. It is all about "reversing the flow".

Repentance is not just saying you are sorry. Repentance involves a radical change. Had Joseph's brothers made such a change? That was a question that Joseph needed answered.

Are you successfully living your Christian life? We can learn from Joseph keys for navigating both the good times and the bad times.

Why do you think Joseph was able to succeed as he did, even in deplorable circumstances? Could it be that he understood a few keys that would help him be the best he could be?

Could it be that you are where you are because God wants you where you are? God's wants us to be our best and to do our best... to 'bloom where we are planted." Even in the worst of situations, Joseph prospered because he did what was right.

What if everything is done the wrong way? Yes, there are options other than wrath and bitterness. How can God use your choices to bring about good?

Joseph's father was Jacob (whose name means the deceiver), the grandson of Abraham. Can you imagine the influences on the life of young Joseph... since when we pick begin to examine his life in Genesis 37 he is already 17 years old.