In 1976, Doug DeCinces faced the difficult task of replacing legendary Brooks Robinson at third base for the Baltimore Orioles. No matter how well DeCinces played, many fans focused on one thing: he wasn’t Robinson, known as “the Human Vacuum Cleaner.” Even after DeCinces hit 28 home runs in 1978, much of his mail was hate mail. Looking back, he said, “The experience made me a stronger player and probably helped me stay in the game as long as I did. I grew from it.”

Genesis 39 – Character First

Like DeCinces, Joseph experienced rejection and grew through adversity. Rejected by his brothers and enslaved in a foreign land, Joseph’s character shone in a dark world. Through slavery, false accusation, and imprisonment, the Lord was with him. Genesis 39:23 says, “The LORD was with him. And whatever he did, the LORD made it succeed.”

Joseph’s trials were part of God’s preparation for greater responsibility. His path to leadership went through a pit, slavery, false accusation, and prison before reaching Pharaoh’s palace. Joseph experienced humiliation before exaltation. In this way, his life gives us a glimpse of Jesus Christ, who humbled Himself before being highly exalted.

Joseph must have wondered how the dreams God gave him could ever come true. He could not fulfill them himself. God would have to do it in His own way and time. Sometimes God’s way up takes us down first. Every hardship was preparing Joseph for what was ahead. The same sovereign God works through our difficulties for His glory and our ultimate good.

The Kingdom Coach and Athlete understand that God often prepares leaders by first teaching them to serve. They faithfully do the work He places before them and trust Him through seasons of testing. Before God expands their influence, He may first deepen their character.