January 15, 2011
“5 Joseph had a dream, and when he told it to his brothers, they hated him all the more. 6 He said to them, “Listen to this dream I had: 7 We were binding sheaves of grain out in the field when suddenly my sheaf rose and stood upright, while your sheaves gathered around mine and bowed down to it.” (Genesis 37:5-7) NIV
“9 Then he had another dream, and he told it to his brothers. “Listen,” he said, “I had another dream, and this time the sun and moon and eleven stars were bowing down to me.” (Genesis 37:9) NIV
Joseph had two powerful dreams; these dreams clearly revealed his destiny. I have no doubt in my mind that Joseph knew exactly the meaning of both of these dreams. However, even as he knew how his brothers felt about him; he shared the dreams with them anyhow. Joseph was a seventeen year old, spoiled and arrogant child. Joseph was his father’s favorite and dad was not afraid of showing it (Genesis 37:3). Joseph was also the one that would “snitch” on his brothers! Now, you and I both know how that felt when we were growing up and we experienced our own family of friends blackmailing us!
So Joseph was immature; only seventeen years old at the time, spoiled by his father, arrogant and hated by his brothers because all of the above. Nevertheless, make no mistake about it; Joseph’s call in his life was huge! With Joseph, God used a very familiar method to get his character in line with his call: “Affliction.” In the midst of the great favor that was upon Joseph’s live; this young man started suffering great tribulation from very early in his life. Joseph was:
1. Betrayed by his brothers and sold into slavery.
2. Separated from his family.
3. Made a slave.
4. Lied about with awful accusations.
5. Made a prisoner.
6. Forgotten by people he helped.
Which one of these six categories is more painful? Yet, Joseph endured all of them and as you read this man’s amazing story, you will see how God made him powerful in Egypt. Not only was Joseph reconciled with his family, but his obedience impacted his nation for four-hundred years. What hardships are you facing today? Perhaps, there is a great call in your life; a call that will affect generations to come in your family. Embrace the current afflictions you are facing as preparation for the realization of your dreams as God molds and shape your character.
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