IT’S ALL ABOUT THE BENJAMIN’S!!! As you’re reading that, you’re probably thinking, “Huh?” Ah, but think about it. We are talking about Joseph. He succeeded beyond measure considering all that he had gone through. Potiphar’s wife. The difference between Pharoah’s cupholder and baker’s dreams. His wicked brothers (who all ended up being the tribes of Israel because of Joseph). The broken heart, betrayal, physical injury, and lies. Yet. Joseph never lost faith. Remember how his father worked so hard for his true love in Rachel his beloved, finally got her, and then finally had Joseph and Benjamin? All of the other sons of Jacob were bore by Leah—not his first choice and there was plenty of animus between the brothers over this. Undoubtedly, jealousy is an ugly emotion that can readily move people into poor judgment.
Repeatedly sold into slavery, Joseph had to understand his surroundings and the culture he was compelled into with wisdom and tenacity to prevail with the help of God. The incident with Potiphar’s wife is especially compelling if we look at the culture in how they viewed slaves and servants. They were property. The lord and lady of the house had full reign to do as they wished with their “property.” That also meant intimate relations. Sex had nothing to do with marriage in that culture. So, let’s look at the handsome, strong, and strapping young Joseph, essentially being sexually assaulted by a wealthy and recognized woman of society. Joseph denies her, and guess what (yes, this happens unreportedly by 44% of underage men (University of Michigan study) in today’s society), he maintained his integrity and just said, “No!” Of course, being the pagan that she was, she was jilted and blamed Joseph. Hmmm, who to believe? The delicate, virtuous, aristocratic female, or the young slave boy? We all know the answer to that. So, lets combine all of these factors that would otherwise break any other person and guess who is left standing—Joseph. Trust me, I associate myself with Joseph more than I care to, especially on the pain and suffering side. Brad Lomenick, a leadership consultant within the Church of God ministries, was quite accurate in his description of Joseph, except on one thing. Even though I agree with his statement that Joseph was not “my way or the highway” in his conduct, he still had to comport himself in concert with his conditions. Digging into this deeper, we see that Joseph’s way was God’s way. Joseph did not have a way other than to submit himself to God in every situation. We tend to get distracted and self-absorbed when we want to do things our way instead of God’s.
So, why did I mention “it’s all about the Benjamin’s?” Many would think I was referencing the Notorious B.I.G. with Lil’ Kim and the Lox, but sadly no—although a great song—I even appreciate the remix by all. But remember Joseph had risen to such great power, all ordained and blessed by God, but deep in his spirit I feel he had the desire to unify what Satan tried to divide. Hence, he used the prospect of Benjamin, his blood brother, to bring his father and family back together again. Although a tad conniving, it had to be done to accomplish what God allowed Joseph to see. The great unification of family and the future of Israel. So, indeed, it was “all about the Benjamin” and Joseph was the man tested by betrayals, lies, hurt, pain, and emotional anguish to serve as the loyal and dedicated conduit for God and His design. For me, I am simple man. One soul at a time. God has not told me to change the world or America. He asked me to work in this community and give my very all, especially for those who are abandoned or considered unworthy.
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