Old Testament · character
Joseph
A man of providence who, from a place of rejection, saved a whole nation.
Joseph was sold into slavery out of his brothers' jealousy, but through all his adversity he rose to become prime minister of Egypt and saved his family and his people from famine.
From the Pit to Prison
Sold by his brothers, he became a slave in Egypt and was even imprisoned on a false charge. Yet "because the Lord was with Joseph," he prospered wherever he went (Genesis 39).
Forgiveness and Providence
Having become prime minister by interpreting the king's dream, Joseph met the brothers who had sold him and chose forgiveness over revenge. "You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good" (Genesis 50:20) distills his faith.
Related verses
- Genesis 50:20"God intended it for good ... to save many lives."