Joseph

The story of Joseph presents two major themes throughout: God’s sovereignty and the example of how we should respond to unjust suffering.

v.2 Joseph’s bad report to his father was not just him being a tattle tale rather he was faithfully fulfilling his role.

v.3 Jacob’s favoritism of Joseph was not unfounded.

v.4 Joseph’s brothers response to his favoritism is a stark contrast to the way that we see Joseph respond to his own unfair circumstances.

Romans 12:17–21 ESV

17 Repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all. 18 If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all. 19 Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, “Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.” 20 To the contrary, “if your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink; for by so doing you will heap burning coals on his head.” 21 Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.

Hatred or envy of others drives us further away from God not closer to Him. If we want to be favored by God we must be willing to be obedient to Him regardless of our circumstances.

By responding to difficult circumstances with kindness and love rather than anger and hatred we clearly display the power of the gospel in our lives.

v.5-8 Instead of being happy for Joseph for the way that God had blessed him, his brother’s anger continued to grow out of their own pride and unwillingness to submit to God’s will.

v.10-11 Finally we see it is their jealousy of Joseph that has caused them to respond in the way that they did.

Genesis 4:7 ESV

7 If you do well, will you not be accepted? And if you do not do well, sin is crouching at the door. Its desire is contrary to you, but you must rule over it.”