‘The stories of two Bible characters named alike happen to reveal a common lesson. It is the story of two dreamers who did not only have the same name but also shared a very similar attitude towards life’s hurting circumstances. They are known respectively as the Joseph of the Old and of the New Testament.
The first one faced betrayal as he was sold by his jealous brothers. Years later, while being in a position of leadership alongside Pharaoh, he encountered his siblings again. Tormented by remorse after their father’s death, these men feared that their brother Joseph would punish them for their past betrayal. However, Joseph answers them in a very surprising way:
“Do not be afraid, for am I in the place of God? But as for you, you meant evil against me; but God meant it for good, in order to bring it about as it is this day, to save many people alive. Now therefore, do not be afraid; I will provide for you and your little ones. And he comforted them and spoke kindly to them.” Gen. 50:19-21
Joseph’s prestigious position, his riches, his relationship with the high level society had corrupted neither his character nor his integrity. He remained faithful to God regardless of the season where he found himself. Either as a privileged son, Potiphar’s slave, a prisoner or the Prime Minister of Egypt, we can recognize this godly man by his blameless attitude. When facing injustice, Joseph demonstrates grace and walks the second mile. Not only, does he reassure his brothers of his good intentions towards them but in addition, he commits himself to take care of their families and lets God be his judge. What was supposed to destroy and discourage Joseph, has actually initiated his journey towards his destiny.
The Joseph of the New Testament reacted in a very similar way when confronted to alleged betrayal. He thought that Mary, his fiancée had been unfaithful to him. One can imagine Joseph’s hurt and misunderstanding at first. Still, Joseph decided to respond to the hurtful situation with goodness:
“Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not wanting to make her a public example, was minded to put her away secretly.” Mat. 1:19
His decision to leave Mary in secret and to protect her reputation preceded the angel’s revelation of God’s purpose in Mary’s pregnancy. In other words, Joseph’s righteous attitude did not depend on how well he seized God’s full picture of his destiny.
Who are the people who have rejected you, who have hurt you, who have betrayed you? Who is your Judas? The people who come to your mind at this very moment may be the ones who are shaping your attitude, a Joseph-like attitude: an attitude not influenced by position, blessings or an important ministry but that remains honorable and righteous regardless of life’s circumstances, hurt and injustice.
Be encouraged and remember that what was meant for evil in your life can be used by God as the key circumstance to propel you into your God-given destiny. You are always a winner when you embrace a Joseph-like attitude.
“And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.” Rom 8:28'
source: Carina Dimitrova (scriptheos).
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