The Humility of Joseph: A Lesson in True Greatness

Verse: Genesis 50:24-26 - "And Joseph said unto his brethren, I die: and God will surely visit you, and bring you out of this land unto the land which he sware to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob. And Joseph took an oath of the children of Israel, saying, God will surely visit you, and ye shall carry up my bones from hence. So Joseph died, being an hundred and ten years old: and they embalmed him, and he was put in a coffin in Egypt."

In the final chapter of Genesis, we find a remarkable display of humility and faith from Joseph, the son of Jacob. Despite being a powerful leader in Egypt, Joseph refused to let his brothers' respect and admiration go to his head. He recognized that true greatness lies not in human recognition, but in serving God and following His plans.

Joseph's story is a testament to the power of humility and trust in God. Sold into slavery by his brothers, he could have easily become bitter and resentful. Instead, he chose to trust God, even in the midst of adversity. As he rose to prominence in Egypt, he never forgot God's sovereignty and providence in his life.

In his final days, Joseph gathered his brothers and reaffirmed God's promise to their ancestors, Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. He knew that his own greatness was not in his achievements or position, but in God's faithfulness and grace. By taking an oath from his brothers to carry his bones out of Egypt, Joseph demonstrated his trust in God's promise of a future homeland.

Joseph's humility is a powerful lesson for us today. In a world that often values self-promotion and recognition, we can easily forget that true greatness lies in serving God and others. Like Joseph, we must recognize that our accomplishments are not our own, but are a result of God's grace and providence in our lives.

Prayer:

Dear Heavenly Father,

We come before you with humble hearts, recognizing that true greatness lies not in human recognition, but in serving you and following your plans. Help us to emulate Joseph's humility and trust in your sovereignty and providence.

Forgive us for our tendency to seek self-promotion and recognition. Teach us to find our identity and worth in you alone. May we, like Joseph, trust in your promises and faithfulness, even in the midst of adversity.

As we strive to serve you and others, may we remember that our accomplishments are not our own, but are a result of your grace and providence in our lives. May our lives be a testament to your power and glory.

Amen.