Joseph’s Will
As I draw to a close in reading of Joseph’s life in Genesis, Brian Houston’s words ring true.
Reference: “They replied, “Your servant our father is still alive and well.” And they bowed down, prostrating themselves before him.” Genesis 43:28 NIV
Explore: I’ve been reading through Joseph’s story for a week or so now, and what Biblical character should my Hillsong pastor speak about on Sunday? … Joseph! As I draw to a close in reading of Joseph’s life in Genesis, Brian Houston’s words ring true.
Through Joseph’s life we see three motivations:
1. The will to live – through all the challenges
2. The will to succeed – God doesn’t give visions of mediocrity
3. The will to serve – selfless commitment to pay the price for the dream to happen.
Application: Joseph’s life is not only well-known because there’s a musical written about him, but his story is one of resilience and commitment.
His will to live through all the challenges is such an encouragement. No matter how low he got, he kept moving forward.
His ability to succeed set him apart from all his other brothers. But he stayed true to the dream God had given him.
And no matter what his situation, Joseph served with all his heart. Whether he was the second in charge of the nation or spending his days in a prison, Joseph lived to help others.
Even if I held one of these three characteristics as well as Joseph did, my life would be better off. We all have something to learn from Joseph, it’s just a matter of how we will apply our learning to our lives.
Prayer: Lord, help us to continue to improve our lives to live for You more. Amen.
What do you need to increase in your life: the will to live through challenges, the will to succeed in God’s dreams or the will to serve?
This article was written by Linda Bailey
Linda started theological studies in 1999 in Australia. After working for ten years in various church ministries, she now works as the breakfast producer at 89.9 LightFM - the Christian radio station in Melbourne, Australia. She writes blogs every day about passages she is currently reading in the Bible. Follow her on Google Plus +Linda Bailey or Facebook by clicking the like button on the right of this page.