Scripture
So when the Midianite traders came by, his brothers pulled Joseph out of the cistern and sold him to the Ishmaelites who took him to Egypt.

Observation
The story of Joseph starts with some dreams indicating that his brothers and parents will bow down before him. Rather foolishly, he tells them about these dreams, which stirs up anger and resentment towards him.

One day Joseph's father sends him off to find out how his brothers are going with the sheep. Seeing him draw near, the brothers decide to kill him. Reuben intervenes and and gets them to just dump him in a well but not to harm him.

Later, a caravan of merchants comes past and the brothers decide to sell him as a slave and pretend to Jacob that Joseph has been attacked by a wild animal.

Application
This is a terrible story of a dysfunctional family full of rivalry and resentment. The brothers don't seem to recognise the contradiction in their statement, “We will sell him, after all he is our flesh and blood.”

The story also shows that giftedness without character is dangerous. Joseph could foretell events through his dreams but could not see that his pride caused his family to resent him.

We need to ensure that our spiritual gifts are used with humility and love.

Prayer
Father please help me to listen to your Holy Spirit and to be wise in the way I seek to use the gifts you give me. Amen.