Lately, I’ve been thinking a lot about the story of Joseph in the Bible. You know, the one where he was sold into slavery by his very own brothers. The one where he served a rich man by the name of Potiphar. Well, here is a very short version of what is in actuality quite a story.

The Word says that during his time as a servant, Joseph grew in favor, and was elevated in the household to a very high level, even though he was still a slave.

Now, at one point in the story, Potiphar’s wife set her eyes on Joseph and decided to try and seduce him. He was still quite young, and wisely I think, for reasons of his own did not want to get into a relationship with his boss’s wife. She not only tried once, but on a number of occasions to entice him. The last time, Joseph fled, leaving behind his garment. She was so angry she called her husband’s guards.

Joseph was arrested and thrown into the dungeon which was likely a lower part of the home. Likely an underground dungeon. There he stayed for several years. In prison, as in the executive suite, God’s hand of blessing continued to be upon Joseph. While there, he once again experienced the favor of God. He was given responsibilities and wound up basically running the prison.

Eventually, as the story goes, the ruling Pharaoh had a series of dreams. He was told that Joseph, who was still below in the dungeon, had the power to understand dreams and visions. So, Joseph was brought up to interpret the dreams.

To keep the story short for the sake of this blog, Joseph was awarded a very good administrative role in the household of Pharaoh. He became the one who decided which people were given what at the time of the great famine and drought that hit the country. As a result, he was put in a position of power – even over his family, including his parents, his brothers and extended family members.

Joseph had the perfect opportunity to either hand out mercy, where mercy was not necessarily deserved, or to hand out retribution. To his credit, he chose the route of mercy.

You can read more about this story at a link provided below. I don’t personally know this author, but he comes from a reputable source and I think you might enjoy the greater tale.

And so, to conclude; as I’ve thought about Joseph, and how he was constantly tried and persecuted, and yet grew in stature and favor of God, I am encouraged to pray even harder for some that I know.

There are several in our family who have been put in difficult situations. Some of their own making, and some by decisions made on their behalf. Whatever the reason, I believe with my whole heart that they can be redeemed and brought out of their bondage whole and complete. I believe that with God’s mercy and grace they will be able to live their lives for the Kingdom of God.

Prayer is the key that unlocks many doors.

https://bible.org/seriespage/8-joseph-genesis-371-5026