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{{DOD-January}}
We now begin a study of one of the most exciting biographies in the [[Bible]], that of [[Joseph]] and his brothers. The entire story illustrates the sovereignty of [[God]] and His providential care of His own. [[Joseph]] stands out as a spiritual giant in his own family. He has often been called the [[Bible]]'s most complete type of Christ. He was not faultless, but his faults are not recorded. Throughout the next several chapters we will see many parallels of [[Joseph]]'s life and that of [[Jesus]]', even though it is nowhere actually stated that [[Joseph]] was such a type of Christ. Some comparisons to Christ are that both were very special objects of their father's [[love]]; both were hated and rejected by their own; both made unusual claims which were rejected by their brothers; they were both conspired against; and they both became a blessing among the Gentiles.
In chapter 39 [[Joseph]] begins preparation for becoming the ruler of [[Egypt]]. He exchanged his "tailored coat" for a servant's garb, and [[God]] forced him to learn to work (verses 1-6). In verses 7-18 [[God]] teaches him the discipline of self-control. He did not yield to the enticement of the [[Egypt]]ian woman. He lost his coat, but kept his character! Too many people have failed in this area of discipline, and [[God]] has had to put them on a shelf (see 1 Corinthians 9:24-27; Proverbs 16:32 and 25:28). In verses 19-23 [[God]] teaches [[Joseph]] the discipline of suffering. Through this suffering [[Joseph]] learned patience, and gained a deeper [[faith]] in [[God]]'s Word. [[Joseph]]'s suffering was not enjoyable, but it led to glory.
When [[Christians]] are called on to endure suffering, it is certainly not enjoyable. But, like [[Joseph]], any time we suffer for Christ, glory shall be ours.
