By Rev Clifford Chisha
Most of the times we look at the rough patches Joseph went through, we focus so much on his elevation and not the purpose of it.
Of course, Joseph benefited from his elevation, but God was looking at a bigger picture, the saving of many lives.
“But Joseph said to them, ‘Don’t be afraid. Am I in the place of God?’
You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.’ ”
(Genesis 50:19-20)
Joseph understood the purpose of his sufferings and elevation.
He saw what was behind the veil of his elevation.
What was the purpose? What was behind the veil of his elevation? The saving of many lives.
As individuals, we tend to focus so much on the personal benefits we derive from our elevation or promotion.
God usually looks at the bigger picture.
Other people may be a reason for your elevation.
Check what is behind the veil of your promotion.
Who is benefiting from your elevation?
Why did God allow your promotion or establishment?
If you don’t fully understand the purpose of your elevation, your elevation may become a demotion
When you understand the purpose of your past sufferings and elevation, you will make right decisions or judgements.
Humanly speaking, Joseph had all the reasons to punish his “cruel brothers.”
They initially wanted to kill him, changed their minds and sold him and went through a lot as a result of being sold into slavery.
Instead of developing a bitter heart as a result of the rough patches he went through, Joseph developed a better heart.
Are your bitter? Are you in a position to forgive like Joseph did?
His brothers were afraid. They were facing a person they sold who was elevated to the position of second in command of the nation of Egypt by God’s grace and design.
The man Joseph, asks them not to be afraid and refused to take God’s position, the position of vengeance.
Vengeance belongs to God.
He further shows them what he saw which they did not see…the major purpose of his sufferings and eventual elevation.
The saving of many lives was the main purpose.
The Omniscient God prepared way in advance a way out for the children of Israel.
He prepared for their survival during the time of serious seven years of famine.
The Egyptians and people of other nations benefited as well.
Joseph was sent way ahead of the children of Israel (Jacob) to prepare for their rescue.
Behind the veil of your privileged position could be the primary purpose of your elevation.
