Genesis 37:8 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.
Rejection in life is really redirection.
The pain of social exclusion is excruciating and can actually damage a person’s self-esteem. However, when we are rejected for the God-given vision, the rejection is actually God’s rudder to redirect us to the right destiny. Small minded people cannot comprehend a great God-given vision. Not that they don’t believe that God can do it but they do not want to accept that the Lord would do it for them. Envy and insecurity fuel the animosity and fire the missile of rejection.
Joseph the teenager had two visions about his future. He shared it with his ten older brothers and they hated him more because of his dream. Parents love all their kids but the child who is extremely obedient and respectful automatically gains more real estate in our mind. The brothers already hated him as the father had a special soft corner for the lad but his dreams added another layer of animosity. Hence, Joseph was rejected by his brothers. Jacob the father would have noticed this and probably sent him to enquire about their well-being to bridge the gap. So he said to him, “Go and see if all is well with your brothers and with the flocks, and bring word back to me”(vs 14). But the brothers seized the opportunity and sold him as a slave to Egypt. The repercussion of the rejection was the redirection toward Joseph’s destiny direction.
Be careful about who you share your dreams and visions with. Small minds shoot down big dreams. When people reject you because of your divine dreams and visions – Praise the Lord. Those who hated you for your passion were only stumbling blocks.
Redirection not rejection:
- Family: Your own family might not fully understand your calling and purpose. Press on and continue to love them.
- Foe: Envy and animosity will stir enemies to attack you. Respond with a smile and silence.
- Friends: Well-meaning friends might discourage you. Respectfully reject their advice.
Focus on destiny, not denial.
Prayer: Dear Jesus when my own family or friends don’t understand the vision for my life – help me to remain strong and focused. Amen.
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