Here comes that dreamer! (Genesis 37:19)
In many ways, Joseph was naive and innocent. In his seventeen years of life, he had been protected and showered with love and special treatment by his father. He probably thought that the rest of the world loved him just the same. But his naiveté got him in trouble when he told his brothers about his dreams and showed off the beautiful coat his father had given him. He probably couldn’t imagine that they would be offended—he was the golden boy, after all!
Even though his brothers assaulted him and sold him into slavery, Joseph did not give up on God’s commandments. Even when he was falsely accused and jailed for molesting his master’s wife, he held firm to God. When in prison, his ability to interpret dreams became known to Pharaoh, who ultimately released him and raised him up to a position second only to his own. Just as Joseph believed he would, God brought good out of evil for him. And not only for himself but for all the people around him. In his new position, Joseph was able to save both Egypt and the Israelites from a devastating famine.
This is a classic story of good and evil: the goodness of Joseph contrasted with the evil done by his brothers and those who appear later in the story. This story tells us that though they may seem locked in a never-ending struggle, goodness eventually triumphs over evil. As Paul wrote in Romans 8:28, “All things work for good for those who love God.”
God always works good for those who love him. We should never let hard times keep us from turning to our Father and asking him to sustain us. If we always seek to do good and try to forgive those who harm us, miracles can happen—not only in our lives but in the lives of those around us. Let’s not run away from tough times but instead face them with faith and trust in God’s promises. Who knows what blessings God has waiting for us?
“Father, I surrender my life into your hands. When I get weary of fighting the good fight, lift me up and hide me in your presence. Keep me safe until I am able to praise and thank you once again.”
Psalm 105:16-21; Matthew 21:33-43, 45-46