Genesis 37

Genesis 37

Genesis 37:1-36

SUMMARY: Joseph sold

OVERVIEWJoseph’s brothers are jealous of their father’s love for him, so they sell Joseph as a slave and tell their father a wild animal killed him.

BIG IDEADon’t allow jealousy to justify your sin.

KEY VERSE: Genesis 37:3–4 (the unhealthy relationship amongst Jacob’s sons)
Jacob loved Joseph more than any of his other children because Joseph had been born to him in his old age. So one day Jacob had a special gift made for Joseph—a beautiful robe. But his brothers hated Joseph because their father loved him more than the rest of them. They couldn’t say a kind word to him.

IF GOD WROTE YOU A LETTER
Don’t let anger or jealousy control you. Those are powerful emotions that can drive you to think or act in unhealthy ways. Do you know why you are jealous or angry? Have you considered I want to bless and encourage others, as well as you? Have you forgotten what has actual value and worth in life? My love is constant. It will not change. Focus on my love for you, and don’t be distracted by how others feel about you. Don’t consume yourself with what others obtain.

Celebrate the success of others. Be authentic in your enthusiasm. The more you rejoice and acknowledge another’s success, the more your heart will grow and develop into one that resembles my own. I want my love for you to encourage you to rest and be content. I want it to empower you to love and serve others. Love and jealousy are powerful forces. Choose love, and in doing so, you can make an impact for eternity.

NEXT STEP
If you’re jealous of someone, pray for him and look for a way to serve him. Ask God to help you genuinely love that person.

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