Topical Bible: Servant: Good: Joseph

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Joseph, the son of Jacob and Rachel, is a prominent figure in the Old Testament, known for his exemplary character and unwavering faithfulness as a servant of God. His account is primarily found in the Book of Genesis, chapters 37-50. Joseph's life is a testament to the virtues of humility, integrity, and perseverance, even in the face of adversity.

Early Life and Betrayal

Joseph was the eleventh son of Jacob and the firstborn of Rachel, Jacob's favored wife. As a young man, Joseph was favored by his father, who gifted him a richly ornamented robe, often referred to as a "coat of many colors" (Genesis 37:3). This favoritism, coupled with Joseph's dreams of future greatness, incited jealousy and hatred among his brothers. In a moment of betrayal, they sold him into slavery, and Joseph was taken to Egypt (Genesis 37:28).

Faithfulness in Potiphar's House

In Egypt, Joseph was purchased by Potiphar, an officer of Pharaoh. Despite his circumstances, Joseph served diligently, and the Lord was with him, causing all he did to prosper. Potiphar recognized Joseph's abilities and entrusted him with the management of his household (Genesis 39:2-4). Joseph's integrity was further tested when Potiphar's wife attempted to seduce him. Joseph refused, saying, "How then could I do such a wicked thing and sin against God?" (Genesis 39:9). His steadfastness led to false accusations and imprisonment, yet he remained faithful.

Service in Prison

Even in prison, Joseph's character shone brightly. The Lord continued to be with him, granting him favor in the eyes of the prison warden, who put Joseph in charge of all the prisoners (Genesis 39:21-22). Joseph's ability to interpret dreams, a gift from God, came to the forefront during his time in prison. He accurately interpreted the dreams of Pharaoh's cupbearer and baker, which eventually led to his introduction to Pharaoh.

Rise to Power and Service to Egypt

Joseph's interpretation of Pharaoh's dreams, which foretold seven years of abundance followed by seven years of famine, demonstrated his wisdom and discernment. Impressed by Joseph's insight and the Spirit of God within him, Pharaoh appointed him as second-in-command over Egypt (Genesis 41:39-41). Joseph's administrative skills and foresight during the years of plenty ensured that Egypt was well-prepared for the ensuing famine, saving countless lives.

Reconciliation with His Brothers

The famine brought Joseph's brothers to Egypt in search of grain, setting the stage for a poignant reunion. Joseph, now a powerful leader, could have sought revenge, but instead, he chose forgiveness and reconciliation. He revealed his identity to his brothers, saying, "You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives" (Genesis 50:20). Joseph's actions exemplified grace and the understanding of God's sovereign plan.

Legacy

Joseph's life as a servant of God is marked by his unwavering faith, moral integrity, and commitment to serving others, regardless of his circumstances. His account is a powerful reminder of God's providence and the blessings that come from faithful service. Joseph's legacy as a good servant is celebrated for his ability to rise above personal trials and contribute to God's greater purpose.

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Genesis 39:2-20
And the LORD was with Joseph, and he was a prosperous man; and he was in the house of his master the Egyptian.
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Genesis 41:9-57
Then spoke the chief butler to Pharaoh, saying, I do remember my faults this day:
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Acts 7:10
And delivered him out of all his afflictions, and gave him favor and wisdom in the sight of Pharaoh king of Egypt; and he made him governor over Egypt and all his house.
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Library

Joseph, a Servant, a Prisoner, and a Saint.
... his work faithfully and wisely as a servant, and was ... to saving the grain during the
seven good years, so ... The king was greatly pleased with Joseph, and told him ...
/.../lathbury/childs story of the bible/chapter vii joseph a servant.htm

What Things Befell Joseph in Prison.
... 3. But another servant there was of the king, who had been chief baker, and was
now bound in prison with the cupbearer; he also was in good hope, upon Joseph's ...
/.../josephus/the antiquities of the jews/chapter 5 what things befell.htm

Joseph and his Brethren
... she spake unto him, saying, After this manner did thy servant to me ... When the chief
baker saw that the interpretation was good, he said unto Joseph, I also ...
/.../select masterpieces of biblical literature/i joseph and his brethren.htm

The Man Born Blind and Joseph of Arimathea
... and the hope of the Church buried in that new tomb, Joseph took his ... heaven on your
soul, and to hear the "Well done, good and faithful servant, enter thou ...
//christianbookshelf.org/moody/men of the bible/vi the man born blind.htm

To the Rev. Joseph Jowett
... Joseph Jowett. ... myself of it so far as to send therewith my servant Antonio with ... the
description hitherto adopted, appears to be pregnant with no good or benefit ...
/.../borrow/letters of george borrow/to the rev joseph jowett 2.htm

Here Beginneth the History of Joseph and his Brethren
... Then Joseph entered into the house, and they offered to ... them, saying: Is your father
in good health of ... They answered: Thy servant our father is in good health ...
/.../wells/bible stories and religious classics/here beginneth the history of 2.htm

How Joseph when He was Become Famous in Egypt, had his Brethren in ...
... wondered at the abusive language which the servant gave them ... were they from offering
any injury to Joseph voluntarily. ... the mean while, have gotten a good way on ...
/.../josephus/the antiquities of the jews/chapter 6 how joseph when.htm

The Foundation of the Monastery of St. Joseph. Persecution and ...
... Joseph to bring me back to his house. ... 22. After this, another personage"a great servant
of God, and with good intentions"came forward, who, now that the ...
/.../teresa/the life of st teresa of jesus/chapter xxxvi the foundation of.htm

Chapter xliv
... A good feeling of the solidarity of their group was ... safe conduct: "go up in peace."
But Joseph's mention of ... him and said: Please, lord, let thy servant speak a ...
/...//christianbookshelf.org/leupold/exposition of genesis volume 1/chapter xliv.htm

Joseph --The Savior of his People.
... O, my lord, let thy servant speak a ... Fear not: ye meant evil unto me, but God meant
it unto good. ... And so through all Joseph's life, and he lived one hundred and ...
/.../lathbury/childs story of the bible/chapter viii josephthe savior of.htm