Joseph ChallengeSample

Remain steady

I encourage you to read Genesis chapters 47 to 48 in your own time for greater context to Joseph’s story. Today’s focus is on Genesis 49.

The words spoken by Jacob over his 12 sons were prophetic. His sons represented and were the ancestors of the 12 tribes of Israel. Some sons had significant descendants. For example; David and Jesus were descendants of Judah. Moses, Aaron, John the Baptist and Eli were descendants of Levi. Gideon, Samuel, Joshua and Deborah were descendants of Joseph.

The fact that such great men and women came from once envious and deeply flawed brothers, shows that God can use anybody regardless of their history. These people were necessary for the advancement of Israel; many of their descendants were heroic and awesome stewards of God’s plan to preserve His people. In the same way, you are necessary for the advancement of this generation in God. The most notable descendant is Jesus, in whom we find life, salvation and hope.

Genesis 49:23-24 reflects on the challenges that Joseph faced and celebrates the hand of God in rescuing him from them all. However, we also see the part that Joseph had to play in his triumph.

‘…they shot at him with hostility. But his bow remained steady…because of the Mighty One of Jacob.’

Biblically, a bow signifies the doctrine of truth and is a weapon. Joseph’s ‘bow’ remained steady, (meaning: fixed, not shaking or moving). This means that despite the attacks to dissuade Joseph from the truth; he remained fixed and did not waver in believing God’s promises.

Ephesians 6:11-18 speaks about the Armour of God being the very resource that we need to withstand evil. Read that passage and ask yourself these questions:

Does the Armour of God, my spiritual arsenal/weaponry remain steady OR does it shake at the sight of adversity? Do situations make me loosen my belt of truth and fall prey to lies that there is no hope? Do situations make me lower my shield of faith to let doubt in? In the midst of life’s storms, am I still a woman/man of peace, or do I bring trouble and chaos? Do situations make me neglect and put down my sword being the Word of God, or do I raise it up even higher and use it all the more?

Share your thoughts #JosephChallenge