Jacob And Joseph: A contrast in Response to Trauma

Jacob and Joseph: A contrast in Response to Trauma

As the Genesis story moves from Jacob to Joseph and his brothers, the generational pattern of jealousy, rejection, and betrayal continues. However, we see that Joseph responds differently to his traumatic experiences than Jacob did. While both suffered because of family dysfunction, Joseph's final response leads to his declaration to his brothers that: "Yes, you yourselves planned evil against me. God planned it for good, to bring about what it is this day- to preserve the lives of many people" (Gen. 50:20). We've all experienced trauma at some level, but God always has a greater plan, we just don't always see it.