Joseph and His Coat
Whenever you read or watch a good story there’s always a way the writer allows you into the ‘backstory’ whether through flashbacks or present day circumstances; let’s begin Joseph’s story with his father Jacob. Family history helps you see not only what motivates the characters, but also what motivates you while reflecting on your life.
Jacob was the twin brother of Esau, the firstborn, whose mother Rebekah received a prophecy from the LORD,
“Two nations are in your womb, and two peoples from within you shall be divided; the one shall be stronger than the other, the older shall serve the younger.” Genesis 25:23
Right from the get-go God warned this mother, however, she didn’t take it seriously since she loved Jacob more, and their father Isaac loved Esau more. What are parents thinking when they show favoritism in their family; it only leads to jealousy. Jacob’s brother Esau never cared much about his birthright even though it meant position and financial gain, consequently, he sold it to Jacob for a bowl of stew. And so began the conflict. Through deception and outright lying Rebekah and her beloved Jacob managed to engineer a plan obtaining the ‘blessing of the firstborn’ (Gen. 27) which included empowerment, wealth, and success; all promises from God. And so the prophecy to Rebekah regarding the older serving the younger was being fulfilled.
This family history shows us God’s providence in the generations from Abraham, through Isaac, and finally Jacob and his 12 sons: His covenant people. We finally arrive at Joseph, the firstborn son of Jacob and Rachel in Gen. 37. Jacob already had 10 sons before Rachel became pregnant, however, when she did, Jacob was elated for he loved Rachel, Joseph’s mother, the most. What a backstory, right? Family history is as important in life as medical history since we find the generations repeating behavior that often leads to sin. Family is messy.
Don’t think Rachel didn’t play into Joseph’s family history; she was raised in an idol-worshipping household. When crisis came she didn’t trust God and fell back into her ‘old sins’ stealing an idol from her father for protection. Earlier, in her barrenness, she hadn’t trusted God enough to wait for conception, much like Abraham and Sarah (great-grandparents), giving her servants to Jacob for children; her faltering faith tempted her to return to idols. Joseph’s family history is messy; I’m surprised he was able to break some of those influences … but God.
Rachel died giving birth to Joseph’s younger brother Benjamin, now a teenager without a mother, and all the immaturity and sibling rivalry you’d expect. As you reflect on your family, strengths and weaknesses, maybe you’ll find your family history making an impact on the way you think and behave like Joseph. Those generational influences only have the power you give them, as believers in Jesus we rely on the Spirit’s power to break every generational stronghold. You may be influenced, for sure, but you’re not under their power.
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