Meanwhile: Meeting God in the WaitSample

The honor Joseph earned by being himself is astronomical. The blessing Joseph brought by being himself is gargantuan. When a man or a woman chooses to live a life of integrity, honor, and righteousness, the results will also prove staggering.

Joseph was decidedly becoming the walking-talking-living-breathing demonstration of the promise God declared decades prior. Joseph realized his purpose in life was to bless every single person in his world - whether they treated him well or not. I believe Joseph’s purpose is not a singular one, but it is a call to all of us who are known as the children of God.

● If you are in a stressful situation at work—be a blessing.

● If you are dealing with a difficult person in your family—be a blessing.

● If you go into the grocery store—be a blessing.

● When you are at church—be a blessing.

The most difficult and horrific of days can show one’s true character with much more clarity than is revealed during the gentle, delightful seasons of life. I believe anyone can be a person of honor and excellence when the sun is shining, the bills are paid, the grass is green, and the children are behaving well. However, when mean people invade our calm existence, when tragedy rears its unwelcome head, and when stress is a constant companion, true character is revealed.

In life’s excruciatingly harsh days we must reflect on the character of the Lord. Joseph could have chosen bitterness, anger, and depression. However, he didn’t do so. Even though his story was one of “riches to rags,” Joseph chose the healthiest alternative as he determined to represent the Lord with excellence and honor. Joseph resolved that no matter where he was, he would tap into the wisdom of God. He embraced gracious heart attitudes and served those around him.

Reflecting on Joseph’s character during long days of loneliness, unresolved family issues, and detoured destiny has challenged me in my walk with the Father. I too must make others’ lives easier, even when my world has been rocked with disappointment and unfair treatment. This philosophy I’ve lovingly named “The Joseph Principle” is for the workplace, home, and the church. When someone at work is harsh, when someone in your family is not treating you kindly, or when a person at church is cool toward you…lovingly manifest “The Joseph Principle.”