JOSEPH – A Leader in a Foreign Land
By Trisha Bogard
Who is your favorite Bible character?
For me – it’s Joseph.
I asked myself why I like his story so much, and I guess it’s because he was the original comeback kid. Joseph never seemed to let all the bad things that he went through get him down.
Joseph realized that God was with him even in the difficult times – even in a foreign land.
In Genesis 39, Scripture tells us over and over that the Lord was WITH Joseph and that he prospered and found favor with those he was subject to in Egypt.
Joseph was honest and kind in his dealings with the Egyptians – who looked many times like his enemies. When Joseph finally had his opportunity for promotion before Pharaoh, Joseph was humble and gave God the glory for interpreting Pharaoh’s dreams.
“Then Pharaoh said to Joseph, ‘Since God has made all this known to you, there is no one so discerning and wise as you. You shall be in charge of my palace, and all my people are to submit to your orders. Only with respect to the throne will I be greater than you.’” Genesis 41: 39-40
How many of us have ever been brought before the leader of a country? Much less have been able to interpret a dream for a leader.
Joseph was subsequently made second-in-command from his obedience in this moment of favor. What a promotion!
All Christians have spiritual gifts that are important to the Body of Christ and also to our country, but very rarely do many ever realize their potential.
I have been inspired by Bunni Pounds’ story (The President of Christians Engaged) about when she was asked as a young political staffer years ago concerning why she felt called into politics and she answered - “Congressman, I am a missionary to America.”
She gave this answer to an unknown Member of Congress from Indiana named Mike Pence.
She never had a clue that one day Mike Pence would be the Vice President of the United States. She never had a clue that one day he would endorse her for Congress.
I don’t think we are all called to run for a position in government, and most of us will never be endorsed by a Vice President or President, but we are all called to make a difference in our world.
We are called to be good citizens, to not be apathetic about what is going on in our cities, state, and nation, and to not compromise our beliefs – even in a politically correct culture.
Joseph was in a place of authority, and then his brothers who betrayed him showed up.
Joseph used discernment in dealing with his brothers before revealing his identity. After all, it had been over 20 years since they had sold him to the Ishmaelite caravan and had told their father he was dead. When Joseph finally uncovered the truth of who he was – his brothers evidently felt guilt and remorse for what they had done.
Joseph, to their amazement, forgave them completely!
This is another reason he is my favorite. He drops the pain quickly and moves forward into his destiny. He doesn’t have time to stay in unforgiveness.
His brothers were afraid, rightfully so, that Joseph would retaliate for the wrongs that they had done to him.
“But Joseph said to them, “Don’t be afraid. Am I in the place of God? You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives”.” Genesis 50:19-20
How great would it be if our efforts in today’s world could save lives by laying aside the things that don’t matter and reaching out to others? Let me just say – they do.
We can’t put off getting involved in our nation until situations are hopeless. No, our efforts matter today!
For example: Our children and grandchildren need us to act now. Their education is at stake. We can’t allow the status quo worldview to be taught in our schools and not teach them the truth. Growing up with a biblical worldview makes children better people and better citizens. We need to give them that beginning foundation in the Bible.
Serving on the school board, attending PTA meetings, or volunteering in your child’s school should only be a starting point. Getting educated regarding the issues schools are facing today and then caring enough to get involved could shape the future of this country. We owe our kids that much. We can’t let them be taught ungodly, racist, or destructive ideologies that only lead to division, pain, and more hurt in our nation.
The Egyptians had different customs, a different language, and even different clothing than Joseph, but he was honest and kind in his dealings with them. God showed him favor because Joseph’s actions pleased Him.
We can learn from the life of Joseph – we can pray, ask God for discernment, and be ready to forgive wrongdoings just as Joseph forgave his brothers.
If God pricks your heart to be involved in your culture, don’t be afraid. God can certainly equip you with discernment and give you all the fruit of His Holy Spirit to make an impact.
Can America’s future generations count on you?
Will you be a leader like Joseph – in a foreign land?
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