Finding Purpose Through Service
“You intended to harm me, but God intended it all for good. He brought me to this position so I could save the lives of many people.” Genesis 50:20
This verse reflects how a commitment to serving others, despite the challenges, can ultimately fulfill God's greater purpose. It’s a good reminder of how our dedication to service can lead to extraordinary outcomes that are all a part of God’s plan.
In the Biblical story of Joseph, his life serves as an example of finding purpose through service. His journey is a testament to the transformative power of dedication, humility, and unwavering faith that go along with a life of service to the Lord.
Joseph's story begins in Genesis 37 when he’s sold into slavery by his jealous brothers. This initial betrayal could have led to despair and bitterness, but instead, Joseph chose resilience and faith in God. While serving as a slave in Potiphar’s house, Joseph served with perseverance and integrity. His ability to remain faithful and serve others, even in unfavorable conditions, highlights an essential aspect of finding purpose through service: maintaining a positive attitude and commitment regardless of circumstances. Even when falsely accused, Joseph continued to serve faithfully.
Then, when put in prison, we see Joseph's ability to gain favor with the prison warden, who entrusted him with the care of all the other prisoners. Joseph’s dedication to serving others, even in prison, reveals that our purpose often unfolds through our willingness to serve wherever we’re placed.
The story goes on, and Joseph’s journey continues to teach us that true service is not dependent on our environment but on our commitment to God and others. Joseph's life teaches us that finding purpose through service involves faithfulness, resilience, and the use of our unique gifts. It’s about serving others selflessly, regardless of our circumstances, and trusting that God is weaving our efforts into His greater plan.
Just like Jesus’s purpose was revealed through His commitment and service to us, we can let this story be a reminder that our purpose is found through service. Whether we are in positions of power, or seemingly insignificant roles, our dedication to serving God and others can lead to extraordinary outcomes.
You can read the story of Joseph in its entirety here: Genesis, chapters 37-50.