WORK LIFE

In Genesis 39:1-3, we find Joseph in Egypt, sold as a slave to an Egyptian officer named Potiphar. Despite his hardships, Joseph made a conscious decision to continue following God. He held onto the teachings and promises taught by his father, Jacob, and chose to live in God's presence. Joseph's commitment did not go unnoticed by Potiphar, who recognized his exceptional qualities and granting him favor by making him overseer of the estate (Genesis 39:4-5). The people in Potiphar's household experienced great blessings because of Joseph's excellence — and the source of his success and excellence was God. Colossians 3:23-24 reminds us to do everything for the Lord, recognizing that we serve Him. Living in God's presence significantly impacts our excellence in all our endeavors, showcasing our commitment to glorifying the Lord.

MORAL LIFE

As Joseph rose to a position of authority and trust, he encountered a moral temptation: Joseph was handsome, and his master's wife tempted him to have an illicit affair with her (Genesis 39:6-7). This was a direct assault on Joseph's moral integrity, but because he lived in God's presence, he remained steadfast and did not yield. Joseph carefully considered the consequences and recognized that it was not worth trampling on God’s goodness. He took a firm stand and declared to his master's wife that engaging in such actions would be a sin against God Himself. When we sin, we bring sorrow to God, and He deserves better than such disrespect. Joseph managed to resist the temptation, but unforeseen events, including false accusations against him, led his master to send him to prison.

THOUGHT LIFE

Joseph’s mind and thoughts were fixed on the goodness of God, even while confined in jail. He remained committed to doing what was right, resulting in prosperity even within the prison. Instead of pitying himself, Joseph displayed concern for others, encouraging and helping them by interpreting their dreams. At one point, he requested the cupbearer to remember him and speak favorably of him to the king — but he was sadly forgotten, which brought him to a season of waiting. Then, God granted Pharaoh a perplexing dream that no one could interpret (Genesis 41:1). It was only then that the cupbearer remembered Joseph, and he was summoned to the king’s presence. Joseph consistently attributed his ability to interpret dreams to God. Due to his wisdom, he was appointed as the second-in-command to the king. Even when confronted with prosperity, honor, and power, Joseph remained steadfast in God's presence.

FAMILY LIFE / LEGACY

In Genesis 45:3-8, we witness Joseph's remarkable kindness towards his brothers, despite the afflictions they caused him. He forgave them instead of seeking revenge, sharing how he perceived the hidden blessings within the trials he had endured (Gen. 50:20-21). As children of God, we need to remember that there is a concealed blessing within every adversity. Joseph's ability to forgive his brothers stems from his unwavering faith in God's promises, including the inheritance of the Promised Land.

Romans 8:28 reminds us that all things work together for our good. When we live in God's presence, we can rise above circumstances and find purpose in every experience!