Like Joseph when he was placed in prison (Genesis 39:20-23), we often find ourselves in challenging situations. These challenges can cause us to feel discouraged if we do not know how to find purpose in our trials. Finding God’s purpose for you in challenges will help you maintain a positive attitude and bring you closer to God.
(20) Joseph’s master took him and put him in prison, the place where the king’s prisoners were confined. But while Joseph was there in the prison,
(21) the Lord was with him; he showed him kindness and granted him favor in the eyes of the prison warden.
(22) So the warden put Joseph in charge of all those held in the prison, and he was made responsible for all that was done there.
(23) The warden paid no attention to anything under Joseph’s care, because the Lord was with Joseph and gave him success in whatever he did.
Purpose in Our Trials
(3) I will give you hidden treasures, riches stored in secret places, so that you may know that I am the Lord , the God of Israel, who summons you by name.
What does this scripture mean by ‘darkness’ and ‘secret places’?
This scripture talks about ‘treasures’ and ‘riches’. What do you think it refers to?
Having a Positive Attitude
(20) Joseph’s master took him and put him in prison, the place where the king’s prisoners were confined. But while Joseph was there in the prison,
(21) the Lord was with him; he showed him kindness and granted him favor in the eyes of the prison warden.
(22) So the warden put Joseph in charge of all those held in the prison, and he was made responsible for all that was done there.
(23) The warden paid no attention to anything under Joseph’s care, because the Lord was with Joseph and gave him success in whatever he did.
Where was Joseph?
How do you think Joseph’s attitude in prison helped him win favor with God and the people in prison?
(16) Rejoice always,
(17) pray continually,
(18) give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.
How should we live every day?
The Best Is Yet to Come
(41) So Pharaoh said to Joseph, “I hereby put you in charge of the whole land of Egypt.”
(42) Then Pharaoh took his signet ring from his finger and put it on Joseph’s finger. He dressed him in robes of fine linen and put a gold chain around his neck.
(43) He had him ride in a chariot as his second-in-command, and people shouted before him, “Make way !” Thus he put him in charge of the whole land of Egypt.
What did Joseph become?
(28) And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.
What can God achieve through your challenges?
Ask a Friend
Can you share about a situation where you received treasures during a difficult time?
What kind of attitude did you have during this time?
What was the outcome?
Application
What will you do the next time you are in a challenging situation?
Prayer Model
Heavenly Father, thank You for always being with me. I know that you are in charge of my life and You will help me have a great attitude.
Key Verse
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who
love him, who have been called according to his purpose.
