Genesis 37:1-11

To show through an analysis of the Scripture that we can serve the Lord even in alien circumstances.

There were 11 brothers and a sister living in a rambunctious home. It was a place of sibling rivalry, only to be capped by the fact that there were four wives. Hardly a place of ideal tranquility. Amidst the ruckus, we find Joseph.

There will be much for us to learn through this man, but today we will look at his home life experience and see how we are to face an alien culture even when that alienation is at home.

• Partiality (verses 3 & 4)
  • Joseph was a favorite son
    • Son of Jacob’s old age
    • Son of Jacob’s true love
  • Demonstrated favoritism
    • An ornate coat
• Paralysis (verse 4)
  • Contention
  • Distrust
  • Hatred
• Program
  • Sheaves in the field (verses 6 &7)
  • Sun, moon, and stars (verses 9 & 10)

It is easy in the face of adverse experiences to allow the hardship to serve as an excuse for not obeying what the Lord has for us in service to Him. Joseph lived in an alien atmosphere but served his Lord well.