Making Disciples, Trusting God's Plan

 

Then Joseph could not control himself before all those who stood by him. He cried, “Make everyone go out from me.” So no one stayed with him when Joseph made himself known to his brothers. And he wept aloud, so that the Egyptians heard it, and the household of Pharaoh heard it. And Joseph said to his brothers, “I am Joseph! Is my father still alive?” But his brothers could not answer him, for they were dismayed at his presence. So Joseph said to his brothers, “Come near to me, please.” And they came near. And he said, “I am your brother, Joseph, whom you sold into Egypt. And now do not be distressed or angry with yourselves because you sold me here, for God sent me before you to preserve life. (Genesis 45:1-5 ESV).

 

Joseph’s story contains all the drama of reality television. In a shocking revelation, he exposed the truth about what had become of him. The misfit whom his brothers had sold into slavery was now a powerful ruler in Egypt! What would happen now that the tables had turned and Joseph was in control? His brothers, who had plotted his death, were now at his mercy! The brothers were terrified, unable even to answer Joseph. They had lived their lives in guilt and shame, and now came the moment of truth.

 

Fortunately for the brothers, Joseph was focused not on revenge but on how God had been at work in his life all along. Joseph had had some time to consider his situation, and his conclusion was this: God put me here, and he has a plan for my life. Joseph could see how the difficulties in his life prepared him for the leadership position he now had. He could see how God had protected and guided him through all his experiences.

 

As we disciple others, we must be willing to share glimpses we have seen of God’s faithfulness in our lives, equipping us for the challenges we have faced. God uses both the good and the bad for the greater good and for his glory. This first-hand accounts of the truth of God working in our lives must be shared to have the full effect in the lives of others. Don’t be afraid to use your story of God’s work in your life. It is the most irrefutable truth we possess!