One Life Makes a DifferenceSample

Joseph

Genesis 50:20: "You intended to harm me [Joseph], but God intended it all for good. He brought me to this position so I could save the lives of many people."

Joseph endured years of unjust insult, accusations, and hardship. Yet, there is no record he ever complained. His brothers despised him, conspired to kill him and ended up selling him to foreigners. Though he found favor under Potiphar, he was falsely accused of attempted rape by Potiphar's wife and put in prison. While in prison, he interpreted the dreams of Pharaoh's chief cup-bearer and chief baker, which came to pass just as he said. When Joseph asked the restored cup-bearer to remember him, he didn't, and Joseph languished in prison for an additional two years. Then the cup-bearer remembered Joseph and, in an instant, life changed drastically. Joseph was now in a position to fulfill God's plan to save His people from perishing.

Unlike Joseph who saved a people, Jesus, who also was unjustly accused, saved the entire world by dying for our sins. But that’s not all. He overcame death, hell and the grave, giving everyone who believes in Him the promise of eternal life. Let us keep our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith. Because of the joy awaiting him, he endured the cross, disregarding its shame. Now he is seated in the place of honor besides God's throne (Hebrews 12:2). He is our source of strength to overcome not only our hardships but more importantly our sins. He is our hope for now and the future.

Application:

Have you or are you suffering such hardships that you feel forsaken by God? Do your prayers and petitions seemingly go unanswered or your situation actually becomes worse? If so, read Genesis 37 and 39-50 to find encouragement. Joseph not only came through hardships that he didn't deserve, he overcame them. And though he was certainly crying out to God for help, it took years before his prayers were answered.

Prayer:

God Almighty, thank You for the Bible that tells us Your story of the people like Joseph who came before us as an example to overcome. May I be the one, like Joseph, who never wavers in my faith, the one who, because of what Christ did for me, remains steadfast, knowing You always hear and answer my prayers.

Let's connect:

Would you enjoy learning about other ordinary people who were used by God in an extraordinary way? If so, I invite you to visit my Author Page to learn more.