This is the account of Jacob’s family line. Joseph, a young man of seventeen, was tending the flocks with his brothers, the sons of Bilhah and the sons of Zilpah, his father’s wives, and he brought their father a bad report about them.
Genesis 37:2 NIV
In Genesis 37, we encounter the life story of Joseph, a young man who left an indelible mark on history. Joseph emerges as an exemplar of resilience, responsibility, and moral awareness at a young age. At just seventeen years old, he was tending flocks alongside his brothers, Bilhah and Zilpah, who were his father’s wives. Yet, unlike many teenagers, Joseph brought a bad report about his brothers to their father.
This introduction to Joseph paints a picture of a young man taking charge and working productively—a stark contrast to the idle and irresponsible behaviour often associated with adolescence. At seventeen, when most might be lazing around or indulging in immoral activities, Joseph was already actively engaged in tasks meant for grown-ups. This account encourages teenagers everywhere: it’s never too early to start being productive and responsible.
What is particularly striking about Joseph is his moral integrity. He did not excuse misbehaviour just because he was young; instead, he demonstrated a deep understanding of right from wrong. His actions remind us that age is no barrier to ethical behaviour. Indeed, it’s often during our youth that we can set the strongest foundations for character.
Joseph didn’t waste his teenage years on unproductive or improper activities. He used his time wisely and was willing to learn from his brothers, even though he was working alongside them. This humility and willingness to seek guidance are important traits for young people to emulate. It shows us that no one is too old or too young to acknowledge their need for oversight and improve their character and skills.
As the chapter progresses, we see Joseph’s commitment to doing what is right. When his brothers engaged in wrongdoing, instead of joining them, he set himself apart from their bad company. He knew what was wrong and exposed it for what it was—far from trying to blend in with bad attitudes or be influenced by them, Joseph stood firm and separated himself.
This verse offers several examples for us to imitate:
- Work and do something productive: Young people should never shy away from taking responsibility for their actions and contributing positively to the church and society.
- Differentiate between right and wrong: It’s crucial to understand the moral implications of our choices and act accordingly, regardless of age.
- Choose to live righteously: We should always strive to lead lives that reflect God’s glory and bring praise to Him.
Joseph’s principles should be a guiding light for believers everywhere. We too should aim to live exemplary lives, worthy of emulation. By doing so, we honour God in all situations, bringing His light into the darkest corners of our world.
Let us take Joseph as an inspiration and strive to embody his character in our own lives. As teenagers and adults, let us work hard, live righteously, and always seek to reflect God’s glory. Only then can we truly be the light in a world that often feels shrouded in darkness.