Leaving A Legacy

(www.mensgroup.org – “Original Study”)

Overview:

This 16-part Bible study series, “Leaving a Legacy,” is designed to inspire and equip individuals to live intentionally and make a lasting impact on the world around them. Each session focuses on biblical principles that encourage participants to embrace their God-given purpose, make wise decisions, and actively serve others. Through the exploration of key themes such as faith, courage, and the importance of community, this series will challenge you to rise above life’s challenges and become a blessing to those around you. By understanding your purpose and taking action, you can create a meaningful legacy that resonates for generations to come.

Message from Marsh: “May your personal walk with the Lord lead you to be transformed, renewed, and blessed.”

Marsh

Founder/President

Thank you for coming to: mensgroup.org

Part XII: Joseph - Trusting God’s Plan Through Adversity

Description

Next to Jesus, Joseph stands as one of the greatest examples in the Bible of godly character and integrity. His life was extraordinary, filled with trials, triumphs, and unwavering faith. Through his perseverance, he impacted not only his generation but continues to inspire people today. Joseph was a legacy maker because he never let go of the dream God placed in his heart, even when faced with overwhelming challenges. His trials refined him, shaping him into the man God called him to be.

Opening Prayer

Heavenly Father, we come before You today with grateful hearts, seeking wisdom from Your Word. As we study the life of Joseph, open our eyes to the lessons You want us to learn. Help us to trust You in times of trial and to remain steadfast in our faith. May Your Spirit guide our discussion and application so that we may live lives that honor You. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Introduction

Every believer faces moments of hardship, betrayal, and testing. Joseph's life teaches us how to remain faithful to God despite adversity. From being sold into slavery to rising as second-in-command of Egypt, Joseph’s story demonstrates God’s providence and faithfulness. His unwavering integrity and trust in God allowed him to fulfill the dream God gave him as a young man. Through this study, we will explore how Joseph's perseverance, obedience, and faith in God made him a true legacy maker.

Main Lesson

Joseph’s Background

Joseph was the favored son of Jacob, which stirred jealousy among his brothers. Genesis 37:3-4 (NIV) states, “Now Israel loved Joseph more than any of his other sons, because he had been born to him in his old age; and he made an ornate robe for him. When his brothers saw that their father loved him more than any of them, they hated him and could not speak a kind word to him.”

Joseph’s dream of his family bowing to him (Genesis 37:5-8) further fueled their resentment. “His brothers said to him, ‘Do you intend to reign over us? Will you actually rule us?’ And they hated him all the more because of his dream and what he had said.” Instead of celebrating his vision, his brothers plotted against him, eventually selling him into slavery.

A Successful Man

Despite his circumstances, Joseph prospered in Egypt. Genesis 39:2-3 (NIV) states, “The Lord was with Joseph so that he prospered, and he lived in the house of his Egyptian master. When his master saw that the Lord was with him and that the Lord gave him success in everything he did, Joseph found favor in his eyes.” His commitment to honoring God in every situation led to his success.

Remember Your Dream

Joseph faced temptation when Potiphar’s wife tried to seduce him. He refused, saying in Genesis 39:9 (NIV), “How then could I do such a wicked thing and sin against God?” This stand for righteousness resulted in false accusations and imprisonment. Even in prison, Joseph remained faithful, trusting in God’s plan.

The Potter’s Wheel

God used Joseph’s time in prison to refine him. When Pharaoh had troubling dreams, Joseph interpreted them, giving glory to God. Genesis 41:16 (NIV) states, “I cannot do it, but God will give Pharaoh the answer he desires.” Because of his faithfulness, Joseph was promoted to a position of power, overseeing Egypt’s preparations for a coming famine.

Full Circle

Years later, Joseph’s brothers unknowingly stood before him in need of food. Genesis 42:6 (NIV) says, “Now Joseph was the governor of the land, the person who sold grain to all its people. So when Joseph’s brothers arrived, they bowed down to him with their faces to the ground.” His dream was fulfilled. Rather than seeking revenge, Joseph extended forgiveness, declaring in Genesis 50:20 (NIV), “You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.”

Discussion Questions

1. How did Joseph’s faith influence the way he handled adversity?

2. Why do you think God allowed Joseph to go through so many hardships?

3. What does Joseph’s response to temptation teach us about resisting sin?

4. How did Joseph demonstrate forgiveness to his brothers, and how can we apply this in our own lives?

5. How does Joseph’s story encourage us to trust in God’s timing when our circumstances seem unfair or discouraging?

Joseph’s life is a testament to God’s sovereignty. His trials were not wasted; they were part of God’s plan to elevate him to a place of influence. Like Joseph, we must remain faithful in times of testing, trust in God’s timing, and extend grace to those who wrong us.

Application

1. Have you ever faced opposition for pursuing a God-given dream? How did you respond?

2. In what ways can you maintain integrity in difficult situations?

3. How can you practice forgiveness like Joseph did, even when it’s difficult?

4. What steps can you take to trust God’s plan for your life, even when you don’t understand it?

5. How can you use your past struggles to help and encourage others who may be facing similar challenges?

Closing Prayer

Father, thank You for the life of Joseph and the lessons we have learned through his journey. Help us to trust You in times of trouble and to stand firm in our faith. Give us the strength to resist temptation, the wisdom to act with integrity, and the grace to forgive. May we, like Joseph, be legacy makers who impact others for Your glory. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Continue to Part XIII: Being a Legacy Maker

Or use these links to navigate to various parts of this study:

Did you find this study useful?

We’d love to hear your success story, ideas, or other feedback. Please send us an e-mail addressed to mensgrouptopics@gmail.com or use our contact page.

click the button below for A “PRINTER FRIENDLY” PDF OF this free study

Get PDF

Join our email list to stay in touch!

Get notified of updates such as when new studies are added.
Stay “in the know” about book giveaways (and other prizes).
We hate spam and will never sell or share your email address.