Joseph was a prominent figure in the Bible, and is best known for being 17 years old when his older brothers sold him to traders who took him as a slave to Egypt. Even in such unfortunate circumstances, Joseph was blessed with the favor of God.

Joseph was born to Jacob and Rachel, the eleventh of twelve sons. He was favored by his father, which caused his brothers to be jealous and sell him into slavery. Joseph was taken to Egypt, where he was bought by Potiphar, an officer of Pharaoh.

In Potiphar's house, Joseph prospered. The Bible states that "the Lord was with Joseph, and he was a successful man; and he was in the house of his master the Egyptian" (Genesis 39:2-3). Potiphar soon put Joseph in charge of his entire household, and everything Joseph worked at prospered.

Joseph's success, however, caused Potiphar's wife to become jealous and falsely accuse Joseph of attempting to seduce her. As a result, Joseph was thrown into prison. While in prison, Joseph was able to interpret the dreams of Pharaoh's chief butler and baker. When Pharaoh had a dream that no one could interpret, the butler remembered Joseph and he was brought before Pharaoh.

Joseph was able to interpret Pharaoh's dream, which predicted seven years of plenty followed by seven years of famine. Pharaoh was so impressed with Joseph's interpretation that he appointed him as second in command over all of Egypt. Joseph was 17 years old at this time.

Joseph's wise leadership during the seven years of plenty enabled Egypt to survive the seven years of famine. His brothers eventually came to Egypt to buy food, and Joseph revealed himself to them. Joseph forgave his brothers and invited them to live in Egypt, where he provided for them.

Joseph was an example of faithfulness and obedience to God in the midst of adversity. He was 17 years old when his brothers sold him into slavery, yet he remained faithful to God and was eventually blessed with great success. Joseph's story is a reminder that God can use even the most difficult circumstances to bring about His will.

By Influencer Magazine