When I consider the multiplying troubles that many of us endure (or have endured) I consider the examples of those who have gone before us and how they persevered. This was certainly true in the story of Joseph. His genetic background flowed from the sin-stained line of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. There were liars, thieves, and murderers in his family tree. His parental home was punctuated with dysfunction. His father’s favouritism angered his brothers. As a result, they exhibited jealousy, greed, and bitterness. Their solution: get rid of Joseph. Think of the journey Joseph was forced into at the age of 17 (Gen.37:2). Then after faithful service to Potiphar he was wrongfully condemned and imprisoned. After successfully interpreting the butlers dream, he still languished in Jail for 2 more years. It was 13 years after being sold by his brothers that, at the age of 30, he was elevated to the role of second-in-command in the Egyptian empire. All during this time he had remained faithful to God. The experiences of those 13 years prepared Joseph for his spiritual destiny.

We should not let a dark past cloud a bright future. Joseph’s past did not determine his present. He was faithful to God and received God’s favour even in the most challenging circumstances. Joseph did not become overanxious about his imprisonment, he determined to trust God despite his present circumstances. He was resting in the ‘everlasting arms.’ Joseph’s genetics or environment did not determine his future, his choices to trust God did. The most important factor in Joseph’s fidelity to God was his recognition that the circumstances of his life did not determine his relationship to God. God cared for him; loved him and strengthened him in every circumstance of life. Jesus said, “He that perseveres to the end shall be saved.” (Matt.10:22). Keep your sights on the horizon, not the surrounding difficulties.