January 12 – Reading 12

JANUARY 12 – Reading 12

by Rev James M. Armpriester, Jr | January 12

“DREAMS IN THE MIDST OF OPPOSITION”
(Genesis 36:1-14; 1 Chronicles 1:35-37; Genesis 36:15-30;1 Chronicles 1:38-42;
Genesis 36:31-43; 1 Chronicles 1:43-54; Genesis 37:1-38:30; 1 Chronicles 2:3-4)

But when he told it to his father and to his brothers, his father rebuked him and said to him “What is this dream that you have dreamed?” – Genesis 37:10

Have you ever had a dream that filled you with hope, only to face resistance or rejection from those closest to you? Joseph, a young man with God-given dreams, experienced this firsthand. He dreamt of greatness, symbolized by his family bowing before him, but his dreams sparked jealousy and hatred in his brothers. Their response was harsh—they sold him into slavery. Yet, even in the darkest moments, God’s hand was at work, shaping Joseph’s destiny.  It was a detour for Joseph, but for God, it was a divine journey to the dream being realized.

The life of Joseph teaches us this key principle: God’s plans for your life will face opposition, but His purpose will prevail if you trust Him through the process. When opposition comes, here are a few things to remember and actions to employ:

1. Recognize That Opposition Doesn’t Cancel God’s Plans

Joseph’s brothers tried to destroy his dreams by selling him into slavery, but they couldn’t stop God’s purpose. Though Joseph faced betrayal, false accusations, and imprisonment, God used every circumstance to fulfill His plan.

• Challenge: When others oppose your dreams, don’t lose heart. Remember, no human action can thwart God’s purpose for your life (Job 42:2)

   

• Action Step: Reflect on when you felt opposition and journal how God brought good from it. Use this as a reminder that His plans prevail.

2. Thrive in the Process by Trusting God’s Presence

Even as a slave in Potiphar’s house and later in prison, Joseph chose to work faithfully, trusting God’s presence in every season. Genesis 39:2 says, “The Lord was with Joseph, and he became a successful man.”

• Challenge: Trust God, even in difficult seasons. He is present in your trials and is working to shape your character for His purpose.

   

• Action Step: Choose to excel where you are today, no matter how far it feels from your dream. Your faithfulness honors God and prepares you for His plan.

Prayer:  
Father, thank You for giving us dreams and purposes that reflect Your will. Help us to trust You when opposition comes and to remain faithful in the process. Remind us that no human action can cancel Your plans. Strengthen our hearts to endure challenges and to thrive wherever You place us, knowing You are with us. Use our lives for Your glory and fulfill the purposes You’ve set before us. In Jesus’ name, Amen.