Joseph’s story reminds us that dreams always come with challenges, disappointments, hurt, and sacrifice. Even though he was far from home and serving as a slave, Joseph refused to quit. The Lord was with him, and Joseph gave his best in whatever he was doing. He continued developing his character, faith, and leadership skills, eventually being placed in charge of everything in Potiphar’s, his Egyptian master, household. God was preparing Joseph for something greater, even though his circumstances looked nothing like his dream.

When life doesn’t go as planned, disappointment can make quitting seem like the easiest choice. We may be tempted to give up on a marriage, our finances, our work, or something God has called us to endure. But every time we choose to quit, it affects our character and makes giving up easier the next time. Strong character is developed when we endure, remain faithful, and do our best even when things are difficult or we don’t understand what God is doing.

Joseph also faced temptation when Potiphar’s wife demanded that he sleep with her. He could have used his disappointment and circumstances as an excuse to compromise, but instead he chose to honor God. When temptation became unavoidable, Joseph ran. Sometimes the wisest response to temptation is simply to run rather than rationalize, entertain it, or convince ourselves we can handle it. Disappointment can make us vulnerable to temptation, so we need to recognize the danger and do whatever it takes to resist.

Joseph was falsely accused of attacking Potiphar’s wife and thrown into prison, but even there, the Lord was with him. Instead of becoming consumed by his own pain, Joseph noticed the struggles of others and allowed God to use him. He cared about people, interpreted their dreams, and continued serving faithfully, even when his own situation had not changed. Joseph waited in prison for years, but his story was not over. Neither is yours. When life doesn’t turn out the way you planned, remember that God is still with you, He is still working, and He is not finished with your story.

Scriptures—Genesis 37:26-27, 39:2-4, 6-9, 11-12 (NLT); 1 Timothy 6:11 (NLT); Genesis 39:16-23, 40:6-7 (NLT)

Verses— The Lord was with Joseph so he succeeded in everything he did as he served in the home of his Egyptian master. (Ge 39:2) But you, Timothy, are a man of God; so run from all these evil things….(1 TI 6:11) But the Lord was with Joseph in the prison and showed him his faithful love….(Ge 39:21)

Questions – Have you ever experienced a time when your life seemed to be going in the opposite direction from what you believed God had planned? How did you respond? Why can disappointment make us want to quit? What helps you remain faithful when things don’t go as planned? What kinds of temptations can become stronger when you are hurt or disappointed? How can you keep from becoming so focused on your own circumstances that you fail to notice the pain of people around you? What are you waiting on God for right now?

Prayer – Lord, help me to trust You when life doesn’t go as planned. Give me strength to keep going, courage to resist temptation, and faith that You are with me no matter where I am. Remind me that You are not finished with my story. In Jesus’ Name I pray, Amen.