CONVERSATION STARTERS

1. Read Genesis 50:1–21.

2. Joseph endured betrayal, slavery, and prison before seeing God’s purpose unfold. Can you recall a time when your circumstances made you question God’s presence? What was that experience like for you?

3. Joseph forgave his brothers and saw God’s hand in their betrayal. What does forgiveness look like when the pain is fresh? How can you imagine God using that hurt for something good?

4. Joseph didn’t know the end of his story while he was living it. While Genesis–Revelation helps us see the “whole story,” there are still times where doubt of God’s plan can creep in. Are there practical reminders that have helped you stay grounded in times of suffering and confusion?

5. In Genesis 50:20, Joseph says to his brothers "You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done ..." Can you look back on your life and see a time that was meant for harm, but God has used it to grow you, protect you, or bless others? What did you learn about God through that experience?

6. Joseph’s story reminds us that God’s purpose isn’t always visible. How can Joseph's story and his faithfulness through hard situations be an encouragement to you this week? How can you use this to encourage others?

Title: Joseph
Reference: Genesis 37:1-8
Speaker: Ben Beasley, BenB@cckc.church

– Pride comes before the fall.

Pride is the beginning of sin. And what is pride but the craving for undue exaltation? And this is undue exaltation - when the soul abandons Him to whom it ought to cleave as its end, and becomes a kind of end to itself. - Augustine, City of God

– When you think things can’t get any worse…

– Reconciliation can only come with trust.

The Second Mountain, by David Brooks

When God’s hand is on your life:
1. You can trust him even when you fall.
2. You can forgive even the worst people.
3. You can be faithful even in the worst.