The study of the leadership of Joseph is one that focuses on several key factors in Joseph’s life. Throughout his young life…
- Joseph overcame obstacles such as growing up with a wildly jealous band of brothers who tried to take his life.
- Being seduced by Potiphar’s wife and even in the midst of restraint, was thrown in jail.
- After assisting the butler with the interpretation of his dreams and giving him the good news that he will be released from prison, the butler did not take Joseph’s request of pardon to Pharaoh.
However, through it all, Joseph carried with him “the Spirit of God” and never wallowed in his difficult circumstances. Because of this attitude and his relationship with God, he was recognized by Pharaoh as the one uniquely qualified to lead Egypt through the 7 years of abundant harvest followed by the 7 years of famine. Not surprisingly, Joseph embraced his leadership role in a special way and helped accumulate enough grain to provide for many through the 7 tough years of famine.
In summary, the take-aways from our table discussion were among others:
- Joseph’s life was an applicable example for all of us of the power that carrying God’s spirit with us has.
- Joseph’s interaction with the butler was a powerful example of talking to people (especially those who we are discipling) in truth and love.