Scripture
“As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good, to bring it about that many people should be kept alive, as they are today."
Genesis 50:20 ESV
Biblical Principle
We live in a world where prosperity is the gospel. Health, wealth, and our best life now is the message. We are told that all of this is what we get and the ultimate reward when we serve God. But this is not what the Bible teaches. Joseph was betrayed by his brothers and sold into slavery, accused of rape, and forgotten in jail for years.
No one would have thought he was living his best life. Joseph never wavered in working hard and being a faithful servant to God. God did raise him up to second in command in Egypt. We could view this and say well maybe if we serve God we will be blessed in the end. In one sense we will. We will be blessed in the end, just not necessarily in this life. Our treasure is in the life to come. We get God! But Joseph is a shadow of Christ. He was stricken and afflicted by his brothers and yet he was faithful and God used him to save His people. We are called to be like Joseph, though we will not all get what Joseph received in this life.
Application + Discussion Questions
For Parents
Do you long for the blessings of Joseph more than you long for the character of Joseph?
What do you show your family is more important in your life, things or God?
For Children
How will you react when life gets hard?
Do you have faith in God like Joseph?
Activity
Memorize: "As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good, to bring it about that many people should be kept alive, as they are today." (Genesis 50:20 ESV)
Pray: God to grow your faith like Joseph. Pray you and your family stay faithful no matter your circumstances now and in the future.
Remember: Remind or share with your family times God has been faithful when hardship came.
A Family Devotion Guide similar to this one will be provided on our website under Fellowship Church Resources and social media every Friday for you to use at home. Then, visit our Facebook page, Friday night's at 6:00pm, to hear Pastor Armando Yzaguirre Jr. chat about this devotional.
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