Student Devotion Week 16: Joseph: From Prison to Palace

Key Verse: 1 Peter 5:6-7 (New International Version)

"Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you."

Helen Keller once said, "Character cannot be developed in ease and quiet. Only through experience of trial and suffering can the soul be strengthened, vision cleared, ambition inspired, and success achieved." The whole time Joseph was going from places of honor to places of dishonor, God was using those experiences to strengthen Joseph's character so he could one day manage the food supply for an entire nation. God's ultimate purpose was to save his chosen people from starvation.

Joseph was truly blessed by God. Things worked out well for him personally because he was appointed second in command under Pharaoh. God blessed Joseph in his finances, and he became a very wealthy individual. He was given nice clothes, use of the company chariot, and the opportunity to marry the Pharaoh's own daughter. On the spiritual side, God used Joseph to preserve the lives of his chosen people-the Hebrew nation. As we come to the end of the story about Joseph's life, do you believe Joseph could say all things had worked together for good?

The story of Joseph is one of the great stories in the Bible. Because of Joseph's faith in God and his unwavering ability to trust God in very difficult circumstances, God's will was done and his people were saved.

As with Joseph, God is working on your character. Each day things will come your way that will shape your tomorrow. Some days will be difficult; others will be full of joy. Some days will give you the opportunity to make a difference in someone else's life; others will involve others investing in you. Always remember Romans 8:28, "In all things God works for the good of those who love him."