Bible Characters Who Fulfilled Their Destiny: And How You Can Do the SameSample

Joseph’s story

Joseph’s destiny was to take a key political role in order to rescue God’s people, as well as many other people, from famine. Joseph’s story takes up about thirteen chapters of Genesis, getting the biggest spotlight of all the Genesis Bible characters. He has a fascinating story of ups and downs–imagine being deserted by your own brothers for dead one moment, the next seemingly rescued but then instead sold as a slave into a foreign culture. (Joseph was a very precious son, exiled into Gentile land for the saving of many — a picture of the work of the coming Messiah, Jesus.)

Joseph’s humble diligence

Joseph was a special man who gained respect and favour through his key characteristic of diligence. He worked exceptionally hard in Pharaoh's court until he could be trusted with every responsibility. Everything Joseph’s hands touched prospered, since he was blessed by God. But along with his prosperity, Joseph also had to learn astounding humility. Just when God had elevated him to be Portiphar’s right-hand man, everything was taken away from him—again. Again, he would only escape the pit by the providence of God, and again, Joseph had to rely humbly on God. The depth of humility God formed in him allowed Joseph to eventually forgive and redeem the gang of brothers who tore his life apart.

Reflective Question

No matter the apparent importance of the tasks–housework, politics, escaping the advances of seduction, ministering to men on death row–Joseph was reliable in all God set for him to do. Are you working in humble diligence with the tasks laid out in front of you right now?

Prayer

Father God, thank You that You’ve called me into a life of prosperous diligence. You want me to be faithful in the tasks You set out for me. I commit to working at everything You give me to do. Thank You that you will be with me in everything. Please establish the work of my hands, so that I would prosper in my work for the sake of Your Kingdom, running the race in such a way as to win. Keep me from strife, and form a humble spirit in me. Help me to forgive the enemies who have tried to keep me from my destiny.

Amen.