‘Dream a Little Dream…’

Week4: Discovering the Character of God through Joseph

4.1. Briefly revisit the characteristics of God that we have discovered so far. What one stands out the most?

4.2. Read Genesis 28:12-16. Discuss the sorts of dreams we have and why we think we have them, compared to Jacob’s dream and God’s purpose in it (encouragement and reassurance).

4.3. Read Genesis 37:5-11. Think about and discuss…

• What about Joseph? Why did God give him this dream? (The answer should be the same as for Jacob: encouragement and reassurance)
• What do we think about Joseph’s decision to tell his brothers about the dream? (Remember Jacob’s dream – dreams were significant for this family).

4.4. Pause for a moment and discuss what we know about Joseph. Read Genesis 37:18-36 and put ourselves in Joseph’s shoes...

• How would we feel?
• Would we remember the dreams and be encouraged by them? (Check out Deuteronomy 4:9)
• What purpose might those dreams serve at this point in Joseph’s life? (Read James1:12)

4.5. Joseph probably held onto God’s promises and assurances while he was in prison as well as the pit. Read Genesis 39:20 – 40:23. Again put ourselves in Joseph’s shoes and imagine how he felt in prison. Reflect on how God used Joseph in his struggles because of his obedience.

4.6. Read Genesis 45:1-8. Note how Joseph gives God the credit and doesn’t take anything for himself in verse 8. His graciousness toward his brothers and forgiveness of them are fruit grown from his deep, trusting relationship with God.

Week 4: Summary

This week’s characteristics of God include:

• That He encourages and reassures us.
• He always sees the end goal – and wants us to, too.
• He uses us in our struggles.