Joseph's Strength

Joesph is often known as a dreamer, and for his major success story.  However, what many people don't look at is the extent of Joseph's bravery.  Joseph faced many trials throughout his life including family conflicts, and false accusations.  In spite of these, Joseph remained loyal to the God of his father and was brought out of these trials by God himself.  The full account of Joseph's tale is told in Genesis chapters 37, and 39-50. 


Genesis 37:3-4 tells how Joseph's father (Jacob/Israel)  clearly loved Joseph more than his other sons.  This was mostly because Joseph was born to Israel in his old age by his favorite wife, Rachel.  Joseph's older brothers hated him because he was the favorite.  His dreams only made matters worse.  Genesis 37:5, "Joseph had a dream, and when he told it to his brothers, they hated him all the more."  And yet, despite their obvious hatred, Joesph still told them his second dream of greatness in verse 9. 

His brothers hatred towards him led them to plot his death.  They didn't carry out this plan only under the direction of the eldest, Rueben.  However, when Rueben left the scene, they sold Joseph to a caravan of Ishmaelites (vs 25).  Joesph then faced unmentioned trials on his way to Potiphar, a official of Pharaoh, the captain of the guard.  For example, it was common for these slave traders to drag their slaves behind their camels for miles through rough desert to where ever they were heading.  The slaves were also tied with rough rope that cut into the wrists as they were pulled violently along.  Through it all it's evident Joseph didn't lose faith.  



Genesis 39:2 says, "The LORD was with Joseph and he prospered, and he lived in the house of his Egyptian master." However, when Potiphar's wife lied and said that Joseph had slept with her, Potiphar threw him in jail. When in jail he met a cup bearer and a baker who both had dreams. After Joseph had interpreted both dreams accurately, he was called to the Pharaoh's court to interpret the reoccurring dreams of the Pharaoh.


Joseph gave all of his achievements to God (Genesis 41:16).  After the Pharaoh learns of an upcoming famine from Joseph's interpretation, he appoints Joseph as his second in command.  Even after his brothers come to him for help (fulfilling his dreams) he lets go of his anger and encourages them to do the same in Genesis 45:5.  Joseph never lost the faith, and God was always with him each step of the way.  Even though we can't see the end of the tunnel, always have hope that God will pull through in amazing ways like in Joseph's life.