Life Lessons: God’s Presence at All Times Genesis 39:1—40:23

Life Lessons: God’s Presence at All Times

Genesis 39:1—40:23

SITUATION: Even though Joseph’s brothers sold him into slavery, God used that situation to bless Joseph. First, an Egyptian officer entrusted his household to Joseph. When Joseph rejected the sexual advances of the officer’s wife, she falsely accused Joseph of rape and had him jailed. Again, even in prison, God developed Joseph’s character.

OBSERVATION: In order to experience God’s power, leaders must often endure hardship. Then they emerge to make their contribution.

INSPIRATION: [A] leader must prepare for leadership in the same way Jesus prepared: by being willing to suffer.

     The words almost sound strange to modern ears. What do we know, in this wonderful country, of suffering? As a nation we have never known real want. . . . There have been, of course, earthquakes, floods . . . illness. There are riots and strikes and crimes. Violent death threatens us on the highways, in the cities. . . .

     To suffer simply means “to bear under.” A leader is [someone] who does not groan about burdens, but takes them—and with a dash of humor. He knows how to keep his mouth shut about his difficulties and how to live a day at a time, doing quietly what needs doing at the moment. . . . Don’t do it alone. Perhaps I seem to be belaboring the point, but lest the “rules” for leadership appear impossibly supernatural, we need to recall constantly that it is Christ who calls us; it is Christ who promises His presence and His strength. Who did He call to be disciples? Weren’t they quite ordinary men? None was outstanding, so far as we know, before his call to discipleship. It was not unusual gifts or an unusual spirituality or any position of temporal success already gained that drew Jesus’ attention to them. He spent a night in prayer to His Father, prior to the decision, and then, in accord with the Father’s will, issued the call. I pray . . . that you (and others who may read this) will answer the call to be willing to suffer in order to lead, to be last in order to be first. (From The Mark of a Man by Elisabeth Elliot)

APPLICATION: God often develops leaders through have humility and suffering. If you have a position of leadership, realize that suffering and success both come with the job. Both build character and ability. Take heart in the examples of Joseph and Jesus, two leaders who rose above suffering to lead and to love. Accept your problems today as opportunities for growth.

EXPLORATION: God’s Presence at All Times – Genesis 28:15;  Exodus 33:14;  Deuteronomy 20:1;  Isaiah 43:2;  Matthew 18:20; 28:20