Philippians 3:14

New Living Translation

I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us.

For Meditation

If any story best illustrates this scripture, it is the life of Joseph. It is an old story that preachers have retold a countless number of times. Yet, it never loses its edifying power for the believer. So, walk through Joseph’s life one more time with me this morning to gain a fresh attitude that wins the prize.

The young man receives a dream told twice for certainty. But how could he know the path it would take for him and how treacherous it would be? His brothers hate him for it., and his father rebukes him. His journey begins, but no one knew it (Genesis 37:5-12).

On the grazing fields of Dothan, his brothers sell the dreamer to some Midianite merchants, who sell him on an Egyptian slave market and bought by an official of Pharaoh (18-36:).

Negativity should consume Joseph by this time, but he does not allow it. He has a goal to achieve—God to glorify his patience until his dream comes to pass. Everything points to disappointment. But because God has spoken into His life, Joseph grips it in his heart. He determines to live a life of integrity, even in slavery. God responds with his favor, and Joseph prospers in Potiphar’s house.

If the devil knows any better apart from destruction, he would have let Joseph there in Potiphar’s house. But he doesn’t. He works out one of his best plots against Joseph—seduction and sex appeal to the flesh. Mrs. Potiphar brings it on, but Joseph runs from the bait. She falsely accuses Joseph of rape, and Potiphar throws him into prison without a fair hearing (39:8-20).

Does that describe your situation with any stroke of imagination? Emulate the attitude of Joseph. The dream is opening up, but in a carefully concealed manner—by God’s masterful design. God is training and building you up for the day of triumph.

With all of his troubles, why should Joseph care about other people’s problems and offer a refreshing intervention? 

Again, God’s favor crowns his godly attitude. The dreams of his two compatriots in prison, officials of Pharaoh, unfolds just as Joseph had interpreted them. Pharaoh restores the chief cupbearer to his position (40:1-22). He leaves the prison with Joseph’s plea for help before the king on his behalf, but O, how the arm of flesh will fail you when most needed! The cupbearer forgets Joseph (23). Isn’t that so human?

Now, stop and think for a minute. How do you think Joseph feels in his moments of reflection?

Joseph does not give us any hint of anger, hatred, bitterness, or vengeful conceptions. How he handles himself when his dream bursts forth from our gracious benefactor—the Giver of all that we have—reveals this truth. His life in Canaan started from the point of his dreams and will manifest through the dreams of Pharaoh.

Joseph is pressing on towards the goal to receive the blessing God has destined for him. (To be cont.)