Dreams and aspirations can so often feel like a curse. We long for them to come true, but only seem to experience their death. However, along the way, we find that it’s actually God who is the “Dream-Killer.” He is the one who takes us through the process of pain, to leave us empty-handed and needy. Why?...to pry our hands away from earthly dreams that will never satisfy, so that we see Him alone, trust Him alone and obey Him alone. And it’s in that moment that we begin to live a greater dream. ~Pastor Dave
Open: Have you ever had God prevent something in your life that you thought you needed, but now realize it would not have been the best for you? Share your story.
Read: Genesis 42-45; 1 Thessalonians 5:23; James 1:2-4; 1 Peter 1:20-21
Discuss:
1. Just when it seemed that Joseph had moved on, his brothers come from Canaan to find food during the famine. How do you think Joseph felt? How did Joseph react to his brothers? Describe how Joseph seemed to vacillate between revenge and mercy? In what ways do you respond in unexpected moments? In seasons where we don’t completely understand what God is doing, how important is it for us to press pause on our emotions and potential reactions?
2. As you read Genesis 42-45, Joseph’s brothers don’t realize that Joseph is the one in charge. Over and over again, they reference their sin toward Joseph. List a few of those moments: How has God worked in Joseph’s brothers while he was in captivity?
3. Define providence. How do we see God’s providence in the story of Joseph? How have you observed God’s providence in your own life? Share your story.
4. After Joseph reveals himself to his brothers, he declares “it was not you who sent me here, but God” (Genesis 45:8). How was God the “Dream Killer”? Why did God kill Joseph’s dream? How has God been the “Dream Killer” in your life?
5. In Joseph’s story, we see the work of sanctification in Joseph’s life. Do you trust God’s process (sometimes painful) in your faith journey? God was preparing Joseph to accomplish His work. How is God currently preparing you for His purpose? Describe the process “empty me…fill me…use me”?
Pray: Pray that you would see the goodness of God in the dreams that He has set aside. Pray that you will humbly trust the process of preparation that God is using to guide into His grand purpose for your life.
Memorize/Meditate: Now may the God of peace himself sanctify you completely, and may your whole spirit and soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. 1 Thessalonians 5:23
