Genesis 37:12-36

Joseph, the son of Jacob, was hated by his ten older brothers.  They were jealous of the fancy coat given to him by their father, offended by his grandiose dreams, and enraged that he had been appointed as a supervisor over their work.  Their hatred led them to sell him into slavery, into a life of extreme hardship.

Our situations are not the same as Joseph’s, but every person faces trials in life.  God, in his wisdom and grace, is able to use them for good.  When approached with faith, hardships can help us develop important virtues for Christian living.

• Perseverance
• Character
• Hope
• Joy