Joseph Shows Refinement in Genesis

Genesis 37:5–8 (NIV): 5 Joseph had a dream, and when he told it to his brothers, they hated him all the more. 6 He said to them, “Listen to this dream I had: 7 We were binding sheaves of grain out in the field when suddenly my sheaf rose and stood upright, while your sheaves gathered around mine and bowed down to it.” 8 His brothers said to him, “Do you intend to reign over us? Will you actually rule us?” And they hated him all the more because of his dream and what he had said.

How Do We See Humility in Joseph's Story?

God gives Joseph visions of his future authority over his brothers and family (9-11). At the time of this dream, Joseph is a 17-year-old shepherd boy. Although these visions are real future insights from God, Joseph was not ready to steward this calling and give the glory to God. Instead of being quiet and humble about these promises, Joseph told everyone about his dreams, which made his brothers furious.

This starts God’s process of refinement on Joseph’s character, where he goes from his parents’ favorite son, to being sold into slavery, to prison, to Pharaoh’s right hand. Once Joseph develops true submission to God, he is granted the power and status that he was promised.

Now Let’s Pray

Dear Heavenly Father thank You for withholding certain blessings until our character is refined. We ask that You humble us and bring us to our knees in full surrender and submission as You teach us how to steward our circumstances. Remind us that everything we do is to glorify You.

In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.