St.Edmund's, Crickhowell
Lent 2002

Everything under control?

Lessons from the life of Joseph

Lent is the season in which we most often think about self-control. The story of Joseph compels us to look at several areas of our personal, family, church and community life which need to be under control.

The end of the story points us straight to Easter as it reminds us that, despite any apparent setbacks, God is in control and is working things out for good.

  1. Families under Control?
    Jacob's handling of his dysfunctional family shows us what St. Paul meant by Fathers, do not exasperate your children. Josephs provision for his father and his brothers show us a more godly pattern of family life.
    Study Notes
    Study Notes (PDF)
    Leader's Notes
     
  2. Feelings under Control?
    Joseph's brothers had reason to feel aggrieved but channelled their hurt into revenge, barely stopping short of murder. Joseph had even more reason to feel aggrieved but chose the path of forgiveness.  
    Study Notes
    Study Notes (PDF)
    Leader's Notes
     
  3. Job under Control?
    In every situation Joseph showed himself to be a hard-working and reliable employee. But in one work-place he had a disturbing experience of sexual harassment.
    Study Notes
    Study Notes (PDF)
    Leader's Notes
     
  4. Spending and Saving under Control?
    Joseph's actions as Pharoah's Prime Minister show a prudent way of dealing with surplus. "Boom and Bust" is not part of God's economic policy.
    Study Notes
    Study Notes (PDF)
    Leader's Notes
     
  5. God is in Control
    Joseph's life had so many twists and turns that it may have seemed to be out of control. But at the end it is obvious that God's planning was perfect and that even the setbacks were essential to achieve his purpose.
    Study Notes
    Study Notes (PDF)
    Leader's Notes

Last updated 8/3/2002
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