I know God’s favor is evident even in my life, yet I often misunderstand what favor really is. The life of Joseph gives a clear image of a man favored by God. Does favor include the logical expectation of quick promotions, public approval, unlimited opportunity, and untroubled living? Most often, not.
Let's take a look at the story of Joseph, up until where we are in our study, and see if we can find areas of God's favor (and some not from God) as we step through.
Favored Young
After years of barrenness, Rachel, Jacob’s second wife but first love, conceived and gave birth to Joseph. I appreciate the way God honestly reveals the dysfunction within this large family. They were genuine people with real struggles! Jacob openly showed favoritism not only between his two wives but also among his children. “Now Israel loved Joseph more than any of his other sons, because he had been born to him in his old age; and he made an ornate robe for him.” Genesis 37:4
Joseph received more than his fair share of his father’s attention. While his brothers worked, he stayed close to home. Of course, the animosity increased between him and his older siblings.
Then came the God dreams of seeing his brothers and father bowing before him, thus escalated the problem. “They hated him all the more because of his dream and what he had said… His brothers were jealous of him, but his father kept the matter in mind.” Genesis 37:8,11
His brothers detest him and sell Joseph into slavery at the first opportunity. A slight diversion from their initial plan. I can hardly imagine the level of confusion and discouragement that overwhelmed Joseph on his way to the unknown. He was dragged away from all that was loved and familiar.
Is this your image of favor? It isn’t mine!
Even in Egypt, however, God’s hand directs Joseph. One of Pharaoh’s officials seeing potential purchases him. “The LORD was with Joseph so that he prospered…. the LORD gave him success in everything he did… the LORD blessed the household of the Egyptian because of Joseph.” Genesis 39:1-5
Joseph rises like cream to the top. The favor of God upon one man results in blessing for others. For the moment at least, the situation appears to improve.
Often times, favor will attract adverse attention. It did with his brothers. Now it brings more of the same. Potiphar’s wife seductively pursues this vulnerable young man. Who would see? Who would know? Would anyone even care?
Godly Character
Yet Joseph does everything possible to, not only protect his master’s honor and marriage, but to also not sin against God. What is the reward for such integrity? A prison cell...
Yet even here, Godly character allowed Joseph to rise above circumstance finding favor with the prison official. Joseph continued to give himself for the benefit of others. He even found a way to release others in their dreams while his own went unfilled. “Within three days Pharaoh will lift up your head and restore you to your position.” Genesis 40:13
Favor Takes Time
It is tempting to overlook the seemingly endless cycle of neglect, abuse, and suffering Joseph endured. We want to quickly rush past the process to happy endings. However, favor cannot be rushed!
For fifteen years Joseph worked out the true character of favor while living in the tension of unfulfilled desire. He came to understand favor is ultimately a call to serve. Such commendation upon a life cannot be lived selfishly!
Wherever he was, Joseph served with uncompromising excellence. The favor of God will always have a benefit for others. Did he ever lose hope of seeing his family? Did he doubt his calling? Were the dreams of long ago fading? Had even God forgotten him like people did? “The chief cupbearer, however, did not remember Joseph; he forgot him.” Genesis 40:23
The Commitment of Favor
For two more years Joseph continued unnoticed within the confines of prison. Then a need arose. Favor flourishes in the soil of someone else’s need. Pharaoh has a disturbing dream. Then, the cupbearer remembers! “So Pharaoh sent for Joseph, and he was quickly brought from the dungeon. When he had shaved and changed his clothes, he came before Pharaoh.”
Genesis 41:15
I love the “and suddenly” accounts of God! I want to ignore the long preparation to reach them, however. God gives Joseph both the interpretation and strategic wisdom on how to save a nation from destruction and multitudes from starvation.
In a single day Joseph goes from the dungeon to the palace, darkness of obscurity to public view, bound in chains to riding a king’s chariot, loneliness to the comfort of home and family,
disgrace to honor. Why? Allow me to submit a thought: favor was ready when favor was needed. Favor often marinades in obscurity for extended seasons. It is the preparation of those God chooses for specific times and needs.
God’s favor is never for personal promotion, but rather for God’s glory and the benefit of others.
Seek God’s favor, but carefully. Then be prepared to accept the training and tests that accompany it. Through the painful process, favor will allow the recipient to rise to unparalleled heights.
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