MEMORY SCRIPTURE
And Pharaoh said to Joseph, “See, I have set you over all the land of Egypt”
(Genesis 41:41).
Joseph’s difficult journey prepared him to lead with wisdom, kindness and strength, guided by God’s grace and honesty.
DEVOTIONAL BIBLE READINGS
Mon. Mar.31: Joseph Dreams 0fThe Future (Gen. 37:5-1 1)
Tue. Apr.1: Joseph Envied, Sold Into Slavery (Gen. 37:12-36)
Wed. Apr.2: Joseph, A Servant In Potiphar’s House (Gen. 39:1-23)
Thur. Apr:3: Joseph Unjustly Accused, Imprisoned (Gen. 39:20-23)
Fri. pr.4: Joseph’s Dream Analysis for Pharaoh (Gen. 41:1-45)
Sat. Apr.5: Joseph’s Rise To Position And Power (Gen. 41:37-57)
DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT
Longsuffering is the key to enduring hardship and fulfilling destiny.
INTRODUCTION
TEXTUAL SOURCE: Genesis 37:1-36; 39:1-23; 41:37-57
We thank God for the insights gained from “Abraham Prepares Isaac For Leadership Responsibilities” last week. May we continue to apply those lessons into our lives. Amen.
This week’s lesson focuses on “Joseph’s Preparation for Leadership Responsibilities.” Joseph’s journey was marked by adversity, resilience and divine guidance. From favoured son to slavery and then a prisoner, his character developed through trials. His leadership qualities include integrity, resilience and trust in God.
Joseph’s rise to prominence in Egypt showcases his administrative skills and compassionate leadership. His story illustrates how personal growth and divine intervention prepare one for leadership. May we learn from Joseph’s example as we delve into this study. Amen.
LESSON OUTLINE
- JOSEPH’S PREPARATION
- JOSEPH’S APPOINTMENT
LESSON EXPOSITION
JOSEPH’S PREPARATION (37:1-36; 39:1-23)
And the keeper of the prison committed to Joseph’s hand all the prisoners who were in the prison; whatever they did there, it was his doing
(39:22).
a) 37:1ff: Joseph, the son of Jacob and Rachel, is presented as a figure who was prepared for leadership responsibilities through a series of experiences and challenges.
b) He had known the God of his father, Jacob, from his early age (cf. Gen. 18:18,19; Deut. 6:4ff; Prov. 22:6). There is no joy in any child not introduced to Christ, w. 5-11: Joseph’s dreams shaped his leadership understanding,
c) stirring jealousy among his brothers but also foreshadowing his future in Egypt. They motivated and bolstered him during tough times (cf. Rom. 8:32).
d) N 36: In Egypt, his leadership skill was honed through adaptation to their culture, learning the language, and gaining administrative prowess while serving in Potiphar S, house (39:1-6). 39:21-23: Even prison, Joseph’s leadership qualities shone. He in
e) found favour with the prison warden and was entrusted with managing other prisoners, proving his ability to lead and manage in adverse conditions (cf.40:4,6-7).
JOSEPH’SAPPOINTMENT (41:37-57)
And Pharaoh said to Joseph, “See, I have set you over all the land of Egypt”
(v. 41).
a) v. 37: Pharaoh recognised Joseph’s wisdom and discernment in interpreting the dreams and formulating a strategy to navigate the coming famine-a crucial factor in Joseph’s journey toward leadership (cf.vv.33-36).
b) vv. 39-44: Impressed by Joseph’s insight, Pharaoh appointed him as second-in-command, granting him authority over Egypt’s food supply during years of plenty and famine.
c) v. 47f During years of abundance, Joseph stored surplus grain, preparing Egypt for the severe famine. He efficiently managed the grain stores in line with his foresight, leadership and organisational skills, hence his administrative success. Had he not been well prepared for these responsibilities by God, self
d) and others, what would have become of him? Proper preparation presupposes powerful performance.
LESSONS DERIVED
- With longsuffering and reliance on God, we can break through barriers and reach our goals in life as we ruggedly prepare for our thrones.
- Your level of preparation will eventually come to play when the time to manifest comes. Don’t joke with it!
QUESTIONS
- Discuss the key factors in Joseph’s leadership preparation.
- Explain Joseph’s appointmentas a leaderin Egypt.
