I’ve been teaching from the life of Joseph in my women’s small group using the Bible Studies for Life curriculum series, Overcome. Studying Joseph’s life in the book of Genesis (Chapters 37-50), we’ve been reminded again and again of God’s work in and through all situations, even if we do not see it.
Being the favored son, Joseph had it pretty easy with his parents, but not with his jealous brothers. As they planned his demise, God was working. When he was sold into slavery, God was working. When he served Potiphar, God was working. When he was falsely accused of attempted rape, God was working. When he was in prison, God was working. When he was released, God was working. Do you see a pattern? He experienced years of difficulty, yet God was working to provide during the famine to come, including protecting Joseph’s father and his unloving brothers.
Our interim pastor preached on Joseph the last Sunday of December. He brought out a point that has stuck with me and convicted me: Joseph’s attitude. Joseph made the most of every situation he found himself in. I wish I could say that describes my attitude in each difficulty. It doesn’t.
How about you? Could that be said of you as you lead ministry? As you face personal crisis? Perhaps this is one thing God is going to ask of me in 2015.
Of all the things I’ve learned about Joseph during the study of his life, this is a new revelation — or at least a new level of revelation that is personal for me. What if we as leaders, model this kind of attitude no matter what we face. What could God do with that?
Chris Adams is senior lead women’s ministry specialist at Lifeway Christian Resources in Nashville, Tenn. Learn more about Chris here.
