Xanthe Galanis

The seven years of abundance in Egypt came to an end, and the seven years of famine began, just as Joseph had said. There was famine in all the other lands, but in the whole land of Egypt there was food. When all Egypt began to feel the famine, the people cried to Pharaoh for food. Then Pharaoh told all the Egyptians, “Go to Joseph and do what he tells you.” Genesis 41:53—55

We end off our study of servanthood with a look at Joseph. Joseph was clearly a charismatic man with a bold personality; you might even say he was the kind of person born to lead. He didn’t always display the exemplary leadership qualities he did when he was Pharaoh’s second-in-command. When we first meet him, he’s 17 years old and antagonising his brothers with stories of how, one day, he’s going to rule over them all. Joseph doesn’t show any tact, he’s insensitive to his brothers’ reactions and it almost gets him killed (you can read about it in Genesis 37).

Joseph’s career took him from a menial slave to the highest-ranking official in country. As he matured, Joseph learned to develop the traits he inherently possessed in way that helped him to help others. In every situation, he found the opportunity to be a servant leader. When Pharaoh appointed him as his grand vizier in charge of the whole land of Egypt, including the country’s food supply, he could have done what so many charismatic leaders do and abused his power for personal gain. But Joseph remained a faithful steward throughout, using his power both to save the Egyptian people and bring unity to his own family.

Servanthood comes in all shapes and sizes. You might be more like Ruth, quietly practical, getting on with the job, or more like Joseph, a charismatic natural leader. Whatever your personality, whatever your gifts and talents, you are perfectly equipped to serve God exactly as you are today.

Prayer: Lord, you have created me uniquely and perfectly to serve you in a way that only I can. Help to use the natural gifts you have given me to serve you better each day. Amen