Wisdom Through The Life of Joseph

Let us consider some of Joseph’s trials and what wisdom we can gain from them. 

Navigating Trials with God’s Wisdom and Favour

 

Joseph’s Faith Amidst Trials (Genesis 39:21-23)

• Verses 21-23: God’s presence with Joseph in prison, despite the injustice he faced, highlights divine favour and spiritual resilience, showing how faith can overcome spiritual strongholds.

• Verses 21-23: “The Lord was with him; he showed him kindness and granted him favour in the eyes of the prison warden. So the warden put Joseph in charge of all those held in the prison, and he was made responsible for all that was done there. The warden paid no attention to anything under Joseph’s care, because the Lord was with Joseph and gave him success in whatever he did.”

• Demonstration of Divine Wisdom: Even in prison, God’s wisdom and favour remained with Joseph. His ability to gain the trust of the prison warden and manage the prison effectively highlights the continuous presence of divine wisdom guiding him, to ensure that his integrity and capabilities were recognized and utilized.

Joseph’s Brothers’ Realization and Repentance (Genesis 42:21-24)

 

• Verses 21-24: The brothers’ recognition of their sin against Joseph and their guilt indicate the breaking down of spiritual strongholds of guilt and sin, leading to repentance.

• Verses 21-22: “They said to one another, ‘Surely we are being punished because of our brother. We saw how distressed he was when he pleaded with us for his life, but we would not listen; that’s why this distress has come on us.’ Reuben replied, ‘Didn’t I tell you not to sin against the boy? But you wouldn’t listen! Now we must give an accounting for his blood.'”
• Verse 24: “He turned away from them and began to weep, but then came back and spoke to them again. He had Simeon taken from them and bound before their eyes.”

Demonstration of Divine Wisdom: The brothers’ realization of their past wrongdoing and their expression of guilt can be seen as a result of divine wisdom working in their hearts, leading them toward repentance. Joseph’s emotional response shows his wisdom in recognizing their remorse.

 

Prayer Points

1. Prayer for Divine Wisdom During Difficult Times

• Scripture: Genesis 39:21-23
•   James 1:5: “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.”
•    Proverbs 2:6: “For the LORD gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.”  

• Prayer: Father, I ask for the manifold wisdom that only You can provide to navigate every challenge I face. Just as You guided Joseph with divine wisdom in the midst of his trials, grant me the insight and understanding to manage my responsibilities effectively and emerge victorious in every situation. In Jesus’ name, amen.

2. Prayer for Breaking the Strongholds of Guilt and Sin
   • Scripture: Genesis 42:21-22
   •   Romans 8:1: “There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus, who do not walk according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit.”  
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   •   Psalm 51:1-2: “Have mercy upon me, O God, according to Your lovingkindness; according to the multitude of Your tender mercies, blot out my transgressions. Wash me thoroughly from my iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin.”

• Prayer: Father, let every stronghold of guilt and sin in my life be broken in the name of Jesus. Just as You revealed to Joseph’s brothers the error of their ways, grant me the wisdom to recognize my wrongs and turn to You in true repentance. Set me free from every burden, for there is now no condemnation for me because I am in Christ Jesus.

3. Prayer for Emotional Healing and Restoration

• Scripture: Genesis 42:24
•   Psalm 147:3: “He heals the broken-hearted and binds up their wounds.”
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•    Jeremiah 17:14: “Heal me, O LORD, and I shall be healed; save me, and I shall be saved, for You are my praise. 

• Prayer: Father, by Your wisdom, I seek emotional healing and restoration in my life. Just as Joseph was moved by his brothers’ repentance, let Your wisdom guide me to overcome pain, bitterness, and unforgiveness. Restore my heart so that it reflects Your love and grace in the nae of Jesus, I pray, amen.

4. Prayer for Divine Guidance in My Spiritual Battles
   • Scripture: Genesis 39:21-23
   •   Psalm 18:39: “For You armed me with strength for the battle; You have subdued under me those who rose up against me.” 
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   •   Psalm 32:8: “I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will guide you with My eye.

 

• Prayer: Lord, I ask for Your manifold wisdom to lead me in every spiritual battle I face. Just as You were with Joseph, be with me, and grant me the divine insight and guidance needed to overcome every demonic scheme and stronghold. Let Your wisdom and presence be my strength and shield. In the name of Jesus.

5. Prayer for Breaking Generational Strongholds

• Scripture: Genesis 42:21-24
• Exodus 20:5-6: “You shall not bow down to them nor serve them. For I, the LORD your God, am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers on the children to the third and fourth generations of those who hate Me, but showing mercy to thousands, to those who love Me and keep My commandments.”
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• 2 Corinthians 10:4-5: “For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds, casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ.”

 

• Prayer: Father, break every generational stronghold that has kept our families in bondage. As Joseph’s brothers recognized their sin and repented, let there be a breaking of past curses, guilt, and sin in our families. May we walk in the freedom You provide. In the name of Jesus, amen.
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 5. Understanding and Discernment

Joseph’s Sensitivity to Others’ Needs** (Genesis 40:6-7)

   – Verses 6-7 Joseph’s discernment in noticing the sadness of the cupbearer and the baker shows his understanding and empathy.

• Verses 6-7: “When Joseph came to them the next morning, he saw that they were dejected. So he asked Pharaoh’s officials who were in custody with him in his master’s house, ‘Why do you look so sad today?'”

Demonstration of Divine Wisdom: Joseph’s ability to notice the sadness of the cupbearer and the baker demonstrates his wisdom in being attentive and empathetic to the needs and emotions of others. This sensitivity opens the door for him to offer his help and interpret their dreams. Which eventually because his own means of getting out of prison.

Joseph’s Testing of His Brothers (Genesis 42:7-17)

   – Verses 7-9: Joseph’s strategic testing of his brothers demonstrates discernment in assessing their character and repentance.

Verses 7-9: “As soon as Joseph saw his brothers, he recognized them, but he pretended to be a stranger and spoke harshly to them. ‘Where do you come from?’ he asked. ‘From the land of Canaan,’ they replied, ‘to buy food.’ Although Joseph recognized his brothers, they did not recognize him. Then he remembered his dreams about them and said to them, ‘You are spies! You have come to see where our land is unprotected.’

   – Verses 14-17: His conditions for their return show wisdom in ensuring their honesty, which reflects his deep understanding of human nature.

Verses 14-17: ”  But Joseph said to them, “It is as I spoke to you, saying, ‘You are spies!’  In this manner you shall be tested: By the life of Pharaoh, you shall not leave this place unless your youngest brother comes here.  Send one of you, and let him bring your brother; and you shall be kept in prison, that your words may be tested to see whether there is any truth in you; or else, by the life of Pharaoh, surely you are spies!” ¹⁷ So he put them all together in prison three days.

Demonstration of Divine Wisdom: Joseph’s wisdom is shown in his strategic decision to test his brothers’ honesty and integrity. By doing so, he aimed to see if they had changed since they sold him into slavery and to ensure the safety of his family.

Prayer for Understanding and Discernment

1. Prayer for Sensitivity and Discernment
   • Scripture:
   •   Genesis 40:6-7: “When Joseph came to them the next morning, he saw that they were dejected. So he asked Pharaoh’s officials who were in custody with him in his master’s house, ‘Why do you look so sad today?’”
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   •   Philippians 2:4: “Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.”
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   • Prayer: Father, grant me the wisdom and discernment to be sensitive to the needs and emotions of those around me. Just as Joseph noticed the sadness of the cupbearer and baker, help me to see beyond the surface and respond with empathy and understanding. Use my sensitivity to open doors for Your purposes in my life and in the lives of my family.

2. Prayer for Empathy and Understanding in My Interactions
   • Scripture: Genesis 40:6-7
   •   Romans 12:15: “Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.”
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   •   Ephesians 4:32: “Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.”
   • Prayer: Lord, help me to grow in empathy and understanding, just as Joseph did. Give me the wisdom to recognize when someone is hurting or in need and the grace to offer support and encouragement. Let my actions reflect Your love and wisdom in every situation.

3. Prayer for Strategic Wisdom in Challenging Situations
   • Scripture: Genesis 42:7-9
   •   James 1:5: “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously and without reproach, and it will be given to him.”
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   •   Proverbs 3:5-6: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”
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   • Prayer: Heavenly Father, give me the strategic wisdom that Joseph demonstrated when he tested his brothers. Help me to navigate difficult situations with discernment and insight and to make decisions that align with Your will. Help me to be discerning in my decisions so that my family and loved ones are not unduly exposed.

4. Prayer for Discernment in Assessing Character
   • Scripture: Genesis 42:7-9
   •   Hebrews 5:14: “But solid food is for the mature, who because of practice have their senses trained to discern good and evil.”
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   •   1 Kings 3:9: “So give Your servant a discerning heart to govern Your people and to distinguish between right and wrong.”

• Prayer: Lord, grant me the discernment to assess the character and intentions of those around me, as Joseph did with his brothers. Help me to make wise choices based on understanding and truth, so as to ensure that I am walking in alignment with Your plans and purposes.

5. Prayer for Wisdom to Ensure Integrity and Honesty
   • Scripture: Genesis 42:14-17
   •   Proverbs 11:3: “The integrity of the upright guides them, but the unfaithful are destroyed by their duplicity.”
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   •   Proverbs 12:22: “The Lord detests lying lips, but he delights in people who are trustworthy.

• Prayer: Father, give me the wisdom to discern and ensure integrity in my relationships and dealings. Help me to seek and uphold truth in all my interactions, building trust and strengthening bonds according to Your will.

6. Prayer for Divine Insight to Fulfill God’s Purposes
   • Scripture: Genesis 40:6-7; Genesis 42:7-17
   •   Ephesians 1:17: “I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better.”
   •   Colossians 1:9: “For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you. We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives.”
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   • Prayer: Father, give me the divine insight to fulfil Your purposes, as Joseph did when he discerned the needs of others and tested his brothers. Let Your wisdom flow through me, enabling me to accomplish the tasks You have set before me, bringing glory to Your name.

• Even though we did not get as far as Chapter 47, I want to highlight these verses

• Genesis 47: ⁷ And God sent me before you to preserve a ^[a]posterity for you in the earth, and to save your lives by a great deliverance. ⁸ So now it was not you who sent me here, but God; and He has made me a father to Pharaoh, and lord of all his house, and a ruler throughout all the land of Egypt. Joseph understood his assignment even in challenging times.

• Pray for the wisdom of God to discern the bigger picture beyond the challenge.

•  Prayer for Wisdom

Heavenly Father, just as You gave Joseph the wisdom to see beyond his trials and understand Your greater purpose, grant me that same wisdom. Help me to discern the bigger picture even in challenging times. May I recognize Your hand at work, and guide me to fulfill the assignment You have placed before me.
Let Your wisdom lead me to see every difficulty as part of Your divine plan, and may I trust in Your purpose through every season. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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6. Favour and Influence  

Joseph’s Success in Potiphar’s House (Genesis 39:2-6)
 

   – Verses 2-4: Joseph’s favour in Potiphar’s house highlights the influence of divine favour on his life.

Verses 2-4: “The Lord was with Joseph, and he was a successful man; and he was in the house of his master the Egyptian.  And his master saw that the Lord was with him and that the Lord made all he did to prosper in his hand. So Joseph found favour in his sight, and served him. Then he made him overseer of his house, and all that he had he put under his authority”.

   – Verses 5-6: His diligent work brings blessings to the entire household, showing how God’s favour can extend to others.

Verses 5-6: “From the time he put him in charge of his household and of all that he owned, the Lord blessed the household of the Egyptian because of Joseph. The blessing of the Lord was on everything Potiphar had, both in the house and in the field. So Potiphar left everything he had in Joseph’s care; with Joseph in charge, he did not concern himself with anything except the food he ate.”

Joseph’s Rise to Power in Egypt (Genesis 41:39-44)

   – Verses 39-41: Pharaoh recognizes Joseph’s wisdom and appoints him over Egypt, showcasing divine favour.

Verses 39-41: “Then Pharaoh said to Joseph, ‘Since God has made all this known to you, there is no one so discerning and wise as you. You shall be in charge of my palace, and all my people are to submit to your orders. Only with respect to the throne will I be greater than you.’ So Pharaoh said to Joseph, ‘I hereby put you in charge of the whole land of Egypt.'”

   – Verses 42-44: Joseph’s new position of power and influence is a direct result of God’s favour, illustrating how divine wisdom and favour can elevate someone to great heights.

Verses 42-44 Then Pharaoh took his signet ring off his hand and put it on Joseph’s hand; and he clothed him in garments of fine linen and put a gold chain around his neck. And he had him ride in the second chariot which he had; and they cried out before him, “Bow the knee!” So he set him over all the land of Egypt. Pharaoh also said to Joseph, “I am Pharaoh, and without your consent, no man may lift his hand or foot in all the land of Egypt.”

Demonstration of Divine Wisdom: Pharaoh’s recognition of Joseph’s wisdom and his appointment to a position of great authority demonstrate the practical application of divine wisdom. Joseph’s leadership is marked by discernment and effective governance, which are attributes stemming from divine wisdom.

Prayers for the Wisdom of God to Walk in Favor and Influence

• Prayer for Favor in My Daily Responsibilities
• Scripture:
• Genesis 39:2-3: “The LORD was with Joseph, and he was a successful man; and he was in the house of his master the Egyptian. And his master saw that the LORD was with him and that the LORD made all he did to prosper in his hand.”
• Proverbs 3:3-4: “Let love and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart. Then you will win favor and a good name in the sight of God and man.”

• Prayer: Lord, just as You were with Joseph in Potiphar’s house, be with me in all that I do. Grant me the wisdom to walk in Your favour. Let my work and actions reflect Your presence in my life. May those around me recognize Your hand upon me, and may my diligence bring blessings to others. In Jesus’ name.

• Prayer for the Extension of God’s Favor to Others
  • Scripture:
  •   Genesis 39:5: “The LORD blessed the household of the Egyptian because of Joseph; the blessing of the LORD was on everything Potiphar had, both in the house and in the field.”
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  •   Psalm 90:17: “May the favor of the Lord our God rest on us; establish the work of our hands for us—yes, establish the work of our hands.”

• Prayer: Heavenly Father, I ask for Your wisdom to manage the favour You have placed on my life so that it extends to others. Just as You blessed Potiphar’s household because of Joseph, let Your blessings flow through me to those around me. Help me to be a channel of Your grace and favour. May I bring prosperity and peace into every environment I enter, in Jesus’ name. Amen

• Prayer for Wisdom in Positions of Influence
  • Scripture:
  •   Genesis 41:39-41: “Then Pharaoh said to Joseph, ‘Since God has made all this known to you, there is no one so discerning and wise as you. You shall be in charge of my palace, and all my people are to submit to your orders. Only with respect to the throne will I be greater than you.'”
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  •   James 3:17: “But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere.”

• Prayer: Father, as You granted Joseph wisdom to govern and lead Egypt, grant me the same wisdom in any position of influence You place me in. Help me to lead with discernment, integrity, and effectiveness. Let my leadership reflect Your divine purpose and bring glory to Your name. In the name of Jesus.

• Prayer for Divine Elevation Through God’s Favor
  • Scripture:
  •   Genesis 41:42-43: “Then Pharaoh took his signet ring off his hand and put it on Joseph’s hand; and he clothed him in garments of fine linen and put a gold chain around his neck. And he had him ride in the second chariot which he had; and they cried out before him, ‘Bow the knee!'” 
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  •   Psalm 75:6-7: “For promotion cometh neither from the east, nor from the west, nor from the south. But God is the judge: he putteth down one, and setteth up another.”

• Prayer: Lord, I pray for the wisdom to walk in the favour that brings divine elevation. Just as You elevated Joseph to a position of power, elevate me according to Your will. Let Your favour open doors and place me in positions where I can make a positive impact for Your kingdom.

• Prayer for Effective Governance and Discernment
  • Scripture:
  •   Genesis 41:40: “You shall be in charge of my palace, and all my people are to submit to your orders. Only with respect to the throne will I be greater than you.”
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  •   Proverbs 8:15-16: “By me kings reign and rulers issue decrees that are just; by me princes govern, and nobles—all who rule on earth.”

• Prayer: Father, grant me the wisdom needed for effective governance and discernment in all areas of my life. Like Joseph, may my leadership be marked by Your wisdom that would result in peace, prosperity, and righteousness. Let those under my influence see Your hand at work through me and may all my decisions honour You. In the name of Jesus.

• Prayer for Walking in God’s Favor Daily
  • Scripture:
  •   Genesis 39:2-4: “The LORD was with Joseph, and he was a successful man; and he was in the house of his master the Egyptian…So Joseph found favor in his sight, and served him.”
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  •   Psalm 5:12: “Surely, LORD, you bless the righteous; you surround them with your favor as with a shield.

• Prayer: Lord, I seek Your wisdom to walk in Your favor every day. Just as Joseph’s favor brought success and influence, let Your favor on my life lead to fruitful outcomes in all I do. May I carry Your presence and wisdom into every situation, bringing light and life wherever I go.

• Prayer for Maintaining Humility in Positions of Influence
  • Scripture:
  •   Genesis 41:44: “Pharaoh also said to Joseph, ‘I am Pharaoh, but without your word no one will lift hand or foot in all Egypt.'”
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  •   James 4:10: “Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.
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  • Prayer: Heavenly Father, as You grant me favour and influence, help me to remain humble and dependent on Your wisdom. Let me remember that every blessing and position of authority comes from You. Keep my heart aligned with Your will, and let Your wisdom guide me in all my ways.

• Prayer for Divine Strategies in Positions of Authority
  • Scripture:
  •    Genesis 41:39: “Then Pharaoh said to Joseph, ‘Since God has made all this known to you, there is no one so discerning and wise as you.'” 
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  •   Isaiah 11:2: “The Spirit of the LORD will rest on him—the Spirit of wisdom and of understanding, the Spirit of counsel and of might, the Spirit of the knowledge and fear of the LORD.”

• Prayer: Father, as You gave Joseph divine strategies to manage Egypt during a crisis, grant me the wisdom to develop and implement strategies that align with Your will. In every position of authority, You place me in, let Your wisdom guide my decisions, ensuring success and provision for those I serve. In the mighty name of Jesus, I pray Amen.

Conclusion

As we bring Week 33 to a close, remember the lessons we have learned about navigating life’s trials with the manifold wisdom of God. Through the example of Joseph, we have seen how divine wisdom can guide us through every challenge, break strongholds, and lead to favour and elevation.

Let us move forward with a renewed sense of purpose. Trust in God’s goodness and His unfailing wisdom to lead us. May your faith be strengthened, and may you be equipped to face whatever lies ahead with confidence. 

Watch completed. Thank God for today’s watch. Remember to break bread. 

Please join us as we break bread on Friday, August 16th and affirm the things we have prayed for today. 

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