The story of Joseph demonstrates that God can take our pain and struggles and use them for our good.

Your suffering can bring glory to God.

As Joseph is reunited with his brothers, he makes a choice to forgive. We are to forgive others just as God has forgiven us.

Joseph faces temptation, but overcomes. As we battle temptations, we must remember that God is with us and that he is faithful to help us stand strong.

Josephs brothers, consumed with anger and resentment at his dreams, sell him to slavetraders heading to Egypt. But God is with Joseph.

Jacob responds to Gods command, encourages his family to submit wholly to God, and receives Gods blessing again.

Jacobs encounter with God produces a new name and a new way of life because he finally comes under Gods authority. We cannot truly encounter God without undergoing massive transformation in our lives.

God did not renege on his promise to Jacob, even though Jacob had to leave his home because of his sins. Jacobs encounter with God reminds us that Gods love is not based on our morality but on his faithfulness.

Gods promise to Rebekah about her children sets the stage for all that he will do in and through the lives and conflicts of Jacob and Esau.

Gods forgiveness shapes how we treat others. We are to live a life of forgiveness, granting and receiving forgiveness through Christ.

We must be committed to reconciliation with our brothers and sisters in Christ.