“Joseph” is a tremendously well written, concise study for small groups or individuals who need a lift in the midst of a discouraging world. Whether dealing with rejection, mistreatment or disrespect, the account of Joseph will restore your faith in the gracious, faithfulness of the Lord Jesus Christ. Joseph receives the most attention in the book of Genesis and rightly so, because he is a wonderful type of the Lord Jesus Christ who forgives and who is lifted from the pit to the pinnacle of the universe.

“Joseph” is primarily a chronological walk through the life of Joseph. Swindoll’s colorful way of creating flow and explanation draws the discouraged reading heart to identify well, understand and be refreshed that God knows all circumstances and will bring to account all injustices. God may not promote a faithful believer to the pinnacle like Joseph, just as He did not promote or allow many great heroes of faith to see God’s promises on this side of heaven (Hebrews 11).  But, the humble, faithful believer is well-known by the Lord and will be rewarded in time, or at least in eternity (2 Cor. 5:10).

Each chapter is designed to follow practical everyday challenges of life. The introductions are great and the conclusions include “living insights for practical personal application. Often there are two application sections that are thoughtfully put together and great launching pads for fruitful discussions if used in a small group setting or for personal devotional reflection.

Joseph is an example of one who went from the pit of slavery to the pinnacle of being the prime minister of the most powerful nation (at that time) because of the grace of God. Those who trust in the Lord, and not in man, will be richly rewarded through insurmountable and discouraging circumstances. These timeless principles were true in B.C. 1850 and they are true living today.