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Joseph began as a shepherd of animals and become a shepherd of men. He, like Jesus, was loved by his father but despised by his brothers. He, like Jesus, was prophesied to receive authority by God. He, like Jesus, was sold out for pieces of silver and handed over to the Gentiles. He, like Jesus, was tempted but did not sin. He, like Jesus, was falsely accused as a criminal and sinner but allowed God to defend him. He, like Jesus, brought a message of hope and deliverance from prison.
Here in Genesis 41, we read that Joseph, like Jesus, was glorified after his obedience and humility.
There are many other similarities. They were both given a Gentile bride. They were both around 30 years old when their life’s work began. Joseph is assuredly an Old Testament Christ-like figure.
“In this story we see reflected the glories of our Lord, who was raised to the throne, to become a Prince and a Savior, the Giver of the Bread of Life to the perishing souls of men. But He sells without money and without price! Joseph’s marriage to an Egyptian bride reminds us of our Lord’s union with the Gentile Church, on the significance of which Paul so strenuously insists. If you live for God, He will see to your interests. Such joy will be yours that you will forget your sorrows (Manasseh) and become fruitful in the land of affliction (Ephraim).”
F.B Meyer
What was Joseph’s distinguishing characteristic? He loved God.
Joseph knew he could not interpret the dream, but God could. We don’t read of him making hasty decisions or trying to take matters into his own hands. He was determined to trust God in every situation. He is a relatable man in Scripture who draws us to a higher standard of love for our Father. He is proof that we can face tumultuous times in life and still navigate with certainty and faith. He is proof that we can resist the temptation to sin in times of hardship. He is proof that we can live respectful, productive lives regardless of our circumstances.
Joseph was a man who faced many temptations. He faced abandonment from his family which undoubtedly produced loneliness. He faced sexual temptation and false accusations which sought to destroy his reputation. He faced the physical and mental pain of being locked in prison for something he was completely innocent of.
Joseph suffered in his life. He went through more than most of us ever will.
However, when you read of his response to all this mental, emotional, and physical suffering, he does not waver. He doesn’t hold grudges or feel sorry for himself. He doesn’t slip into a state of fatalistic or negative thinking. He doesn’t allow his heart to become hardened by the sin done to him.
Ugh. These are difficult teachings… but they are also encouraging.
No, Joseph was not perfect. He definitely had sin in his life. But the bullet point summary of Joseph is a man who loved God with everything and refused to allow his joy to be derailed by this broken world. What a perspective! Let the life of Joseph inspire you to stand to your feet, dust yourself off, and sprint toward your Father!