The Transformation of Life — Joseph

 “Joseph said to them, ‘Do not be afraid, for am I in the place of God? As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good—to bring it about that many people should be kept alive, as they are today. Now therefore, do not be afraid; I will provide for you and your little ones.’ Thus he comforted them and spoke kindly to them.”— Genesis 50:19–21

In the Book of Genesis, there are four major figures: Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and Joseph. Among them, except for Isaac, the other three lived lives full of extraordinary stories. Joseph’s life, in particular, is remarkable. Although he was not Jacob’s firstborn, he received a double portion of blessing—his two sons, Ephraim and Manasseh, were counted among Jacob’s sons, becoming two of the twelve tribes of Israel.

This blessing flowed from the transformation of Joseph’s life: he was healed from deep wounds, rose from slavery to become the governor of Egypt, and ultimately became the savior of his family of seventy souls.

Joseph’s life can be divided into four stages of transformation:

1. A Life of Favoritism

  Before the age of seventeen, Joseph was deeply loved by his father. However, he lacked understanding toward his brothers, often reporting their faults to his father. He also proudly displayed his colorful robe and shared his dreams from God, which provoked jealousy and hatred among his brothers. Eventually, they sold him into slavery in Egypt. Though spared from death, he was torn from his home and thrust into a life of servitude.

2. A Humble Life as a Slave

  In Egypt, Joseph became a servant in the household of Potiphar. Though he lived in hardship and loneliness, he kept his heart close to God. The Lord was with him and granted him success in everything he did. Gaining Potiphar’s trust, Joseph was put in charge of the entire household. Yet soon his integrity was tested—he refused the advances of Potiphar’s wife and was falsely accused, resulting in imprisonment. Once again, his life plunged into darkness.

3. Refinement in Prison

Life in prison was even harder than slavery. There seemed to be no hope or future. Yet Joseph did not give up. He continued to live faithfully, showing kindness to others and maintaining a close relationship with God. The Lord gave him a spiritual gift—the ability to interpret dreams. Joseph used this gift to interpret the dreams of the cupbearer and the baker, becoming a blessing even in confinement. These years of trial shaped his character, deepened his spiritual sensitivity, and prepared him for his divine destiny.

4. Rising to the Pinnacle of Life

  In God’s perfect timing, Joseph was called before Pharaoh to interpret his troubling dreams. By God’s wisdom, Joseph revealed the meaning of the seven years of abundance followed by seven years of famine. Impressed by his discernment, Pharaoh appointed Joseph as governor over all Egypt. Though exalted to great power, Joseph did not forget his past pain. He named his first son Manasseh, meaning “to forget,” signifying his desire to move beyond the bitterness of his past.

When Joseph later met his brothers again, he was deeply moved. Though initially unwilling to reveal himself, he eventually, under God’s guidance, chose forgiveness. Upon seeing his youngest brother Benjamin, Joseph wept and embraced him. He then declared to his brothers, “God sent me ahead of you to preserve life.”

Joseph came to understand that every hardship he endured was part of God’s greater purpose—to save his family and preserve a nation. He forgave his brothers completely, promised to provide for them and their families, and comforted them with kind and gracious words. Through his life, Joseph became a powerful example of love, forgiveness, and redemption.

Conclusion: Joseph’s transformation is a journey from trauma to healing, from humiliation to glory, from resentment to forgiveness. Through faith and obedience, he allowed God to shape his character until he reflected the image of a true child of God.

May we, like Joseph, learn to forgive the past, be healed of our wounds, bless others, and live a life that glorifies God. Amen.