Buying and Selling
When Joseph was taken to Egypt by the Ishmaelite traders, he was purchased by Potiphar, an Egyptian officer. Potiphar was captain of the guard for Pharaoh, the king of Egypt. Genesis 39:1 (NLT)
When the Ishmaelite merchants sold Joseph, they were only seeing a buying-and-selling transaction—a financial gain. But God was doing something much greater. He was using this event, which looked like betrayal and tragedy, to bless His son Joseph and, later on, the entire Israelite nation. This speaks to us today: in those negative events where we have felt “sold out,” betrayed, or treated unfairly, we must understand that God will use them to lead us into a greater dimension of blessing.
- The buying-and-selling led to a better job.
What began as slavery, God transformed into promotion. Joseph eventually had a better job after that transaction, working first in the captain’s household and later in government.
- The buying-and-selling brought greater influence.
After that transaction, Joseph did not remain an anonymous slave. He rose to such influence that he became the governor of Egypt, the second most powerful man after Pharaoh.
- The buying-and-selling led to a better home.
Joseph was taken from his father’s house, but after the transaction, he eventually lived in a better home. He ended up living in the palace.
- The buying-and-selling brought more provision.
Although he was sold for a few coins, Joseph came to manage all the wealth of Egypt. He himself had more provision than he ever could have imagined.
- The buying-and-selling brought blessing to his family.
That painful sale was the means God used so Joseph could help his parents and brothers during the famine, saving his family from death.
- The buying-and-selling produced a legacy.
He was able to secure land for his people (Goshen), where they multiplied until they became a nation of more than two million people.
Today we can declare in the name of Jesus Christ that, just as in the life of Joseph, all things in our lives will work together for good (Romans 8:28). Even if there have been painful “buying-and-selling” moments, betrayals, or negative events, God is faithful to fulfill His purpose in us (Psalm 138:8). What the enemy intended for evil, God will transform into a greater blessing.
When Joseph was taken to Egypt by the Ishmaelite traders, he was purchased by Potiphar, an Egyptian officer. Potiphar was captain of the guard for Pharaoh, the king of Egypt. Genesis 39:1 (NLT)
Think About It:
- In what situation from your past did you feel “sold out” or betrayed?
- How can you begin to view that situation not as a loss but as a “transaction” God will use for your promotion?
- In what ways can you use the blessing God will give you after your “valley” to help your family or the church, just as Joseph did?