People like to be hopeful when faced with difficult situations. But sometimes, these are false hopes, resulting in greater disappointments later on. In the book of Genesis, Joseph had countless experiences of life not getting any better. Rather, his life got from bad to worse. He was betrayed and sold by his brothers to be a slave (Gen 37), wrongly accused by Potiphar’s wife for something which he did not commit (Gen 39) and he ended up in prison. Despite all these, Joseph did not feel disappointed nor did he lose his faith in God. There are 3 lessons we can learn from Joseph on how to overcome disappointment when our lives seem to be getting from bad to worse.

Our responses to our life’s trials and tribulations are good indicators of our true spiritual condition. It will make us realise how strong or weak our faith in our Lord is. When faced with trials, we are to put our faith and trust only in the Lord Jesus Christ. Just as a ship’s anchor will hold the ship firmly so that it will not be tossed about by the waves, Jesus is the Anchor that will secure us firmly so that whatever trials we may experience, we will have the assurance and comfort that God is with us, holding us firmly and keeping us safe. We will then not be worried or anxious because we know that God is sovereign and is in control of our situations. Thus, our disposition will reflect God and others will be able to see God through our lives as they observe our behaviours and actions.

While in prison, Joseph was given the responsibility of taking charge of the prisoners (Gen 39:22). He carried out his duties faithfully. When experiencing trials, we must never give up but continue to be faithful and persevere in carrying out our duties or responsibilities. We must continue to serve God and exercise charity despite the difficulties that we are facing.

Many things are not within our control. God, in His sovereign will, had allowed the baker and butler to be in the same prison as Joseph. Deliverance may not necessarily mean being delivered from our suffering or pain, but to trust in God that all things work together for good to them that love God (Rom 8:28).