Joseph was one of twelve sons of Jacob, favored by his father. However, his brothers resented him for this special treatment. To make matters worse, Joseph had two dreams that foretold his future greatness, which further fueled their jealousy.

In their envy, Joseph’s brothers hatched a plan to get rid of him. They sold him to traders who took him to Egypt as a slave, while they deceived their father into believing that Joseph was killed by a wild animal. 

In Egypt, Joseph was bought by Potiphar, an officer of Pharaoh. He soon earned the trust of his master and was placed in charge of his household. However, Joseph faced another betrayal when Potiphar’s wife falsely accused him of attempted rape after he resisted her advances. Consequently, Joseph was thrown into prison, his life seemingly shattered once again.

While in prison, Joseph’s ability to interpret dreams caught the attention of Pharaoh’s cupbearer and baker, who were both troubled by their own dreams. Joseph accurately interpreted the dreams, foretelling the cupbearer’s release and the baker’s execution. Unfortunately, the cupbearer forgot about Joseph’s kindness and left him in prison for two more years.

Then, God intervened and caused Pharaoh to have a troubling dream. No one in Egypt could interpret it, and the cupbearer finally remembered Joseph’s gift. Joseph, divinely inspired, interpreted the dream as a premonition of seven years of abundance followed by seven years of famine. Impressed by his wisdom, Pharaoh appointed Joseph as the governor of Egypt, second only to Pharaoh himself.

During the years of plenty, Joseph wisely stored grain, preparing for the upcoming famine. When the famine finally struck, it affected not only Egypt but also neighboring lands, including Canaan, where Joseph’s family resided.

Joseph’s brothers, desperate for food, came to Egypt seeking assistance. Unaware of Joseph’s elevated position, they bowed before him, fulfilling the dream Joseph had shared with them so many years ago. Recognizing his brothers, Joseph concealed his identity and tested their changed hearts.

He eventually revealed himself, overwhelmed with emotion, and forgave his brothers. He assured them that even though they had meant evil, God had used their actions for good. Joseph then relocated his entire family to Egypt, ensuring their safety and giving them provisions during the famine.

Thus, Joseph’s story is one of triumph over betrayal, as his faithfulness and obedience through trials led to his restoration, reconciliation with his brothers, and the preservation of his family. It showcases the power of forgiveness and the guiding hand of God, who turns even the darkest moments into opportunities for redemption and reconciliation.

_________

In the book BEYOND BETRAYAL subtitled: Overcome Past Hurts And To Begin To Trust Again written by Phil Waldrop, the story of Joseph was recalled showing how we can turn our betrayal stories around in a similar way. Joseph told his brothers that he had never been out of God’s hands and that through what they had done, God was now using Joseph to save the known world from the monstrous famine they were facing. Afraid that, after their father’s death, Joseph would use his power to seek revenge against them, he told them instead, “You meant evil against me, but God meant it for good.” Genesis 51:20. Phil says can we turn our betrayal stories around in a similar way. Can we also take our lives back and learn to trust again, for the benefit of all involved? I think we can. I recommend his book BEYOND BETRAYAL, by Harvest House.