The Handling of God
Genesis 50:15–21
Recently, Christopher Nolan’s epic film The Odyssey has taken the world by storm. The word Odyssey signifies a “long, arduous journey or voyage”—in a word, a “grand journey.”
The core theme of The Odyssey is “returning home.” It is the story of a human being who never forgot where he belonged, even amid endless trials. Watching The Odyssey brings to mind the ultimate biblical odyssey: the life of Joseph. Joseph, too, lived without ever forgetting his true destination through every trial.
While the classic Odyssey relies on human effort to find the way home, Joseph’s return is a journey walked with God toward an eternal home. Look at Joseph’s final words on his deathbed: “Carry my bones up from here.” In faith, he confessed that Egypt was not his permanent dwelling place.
The defining difference between The Odyssey and Joseph’s life is the handling of God (God’s dealing/touch). Scripture describes Joseph’s life with this constant refrain: “The Lord was with Joseph.” This proves that his daily life unfolded entirely under God’s personal handling.
God’s handling is a holy process that breaks down our self-centered thoughts and stubbornness, shaping us to submit to His larger, perfect will. He brings us to lay down our own agendas, transforms our inner core—making us more conscious of His Word and presence than the world’s standards—and leads us into complete obedience, even when circumstances oppose our expectations. In an unpredictable world, He forms our thoughts so we stand firm in faith, pursuing a distinct “difference” in the world through a faith that transcends emotion.
Scripture uses garments to depict the phases of Joseph’s life:
1. The Coat of Many Colors: Loved by Jacob above his brothers, provoking their jealousy until they sold him into slavery.
2. The Slave’s Garment: Marking his bondservant status through painful years.
3. The Prison Uniform: Worn when falsely accused by Potiphar’s wife.
4. The Fine Linen: Worn to stand before the king and serve as prime minister.
Whether dressed in glory or in bitter misery, Joseph’s faith remained unwavering. The core of God’s handling of Joseph was Immanuel—His presence. Whatever garment Joseph wore, God was with him, clothing him in spiritual armor. Through relentless trials and pain, Joseph lived continuously under God’s touch.
1. Living a Life of “Holy Difference” Under God’s Handling
(The essence of this difference is that it saves both oneself and others. Conformity to the world leads to death; when we are set apart, God’s values can penetrate and bring life to others.)
God’s handling transformed Joseph into a “Holy Creator” in every environment. In a spiritual context, a Holy Creator is someone set apart from worldly methods to reveal God’s will and creative order.
Rather than seeking easy shortcuts before the world’s rough waves, a holy creator lives honestly in the station God assigned, boldly writing truth in the language of this generation. “Be holy, for I am holy.” We mimic God’s character and live by His attributes. Because “the Lord was with Joseph,” he remained a holy creator to the end—knowing when to flee at the crossroads between compromise and purity. Through holy habits in daily life, he became a light to the world.
Furthermore, God’s handling birthed in Joseph “Creative Hospitality.” This is a flexible, proactive spirit that opens space for strangers beyond obligation, creating room for restoration and new possibilities.
• Joseph welcomed the brothers who sold him into slavery with joy and forgiveness.
• He welcomed the officials who used him for personal gain.
• He welcomed the household of Potiphar, whose wife framed him.
Imagine the terror of Joseph’s brothers when they realized the Prime Minister of Egypt was the brother they betrayed. They expected death. Yet Joseph extended creative hospitality: “How could I punish you?” His forgiveness and provision during the famine gave them a fresh start.
Christian creativity is not about parading individual genius; it is creating a platform in community so others can discover their gifts and flourish. When we lay down the arrogant notion that we have all the answers and act as “scouts” trusting our companions, a glorious community is built.
2. Confessing Every Trial as God’s Divine Handling
Joseph confessed that every trial, test, and affliction was simply the Lord at work in his life.
Two truths we must keep in mind:
• Never doubt God’s handling; view it as non-negotiable. Even if life feels dragged along against your intention, do not be deceived by appearances.
• Inspire the world through God’s handling. Joseph moved Potiphar, the prison warden, and his brothers. He confessed that all his hardships were God’s divine preparation.
Remember that God’s handling always concludes in prosperity (Hatslachah). The powerful anointing of the Holy Spirit upon those who obey His call grants far more than whatever was surrendered. It is a grueling road, but indisputably glorious.
The word prosperity in Joseph’s story carries the Hebrew root meaning of “the power to breakthrough”—the pulling force of God. When God pulls you forward, no one can block your path.
Conclusion: Our Odyssey with God
Our lives are odysseys walked with God. As Jesus ascended, He promised: “I go to prepare a place for you.” He revealed our ultimate home.
What a tragedy to age and face eternity without a glorious promise! But how beautiful is a child of God with mature faith, like a full shock of grain ripe for harvest. Joseph was not content with his earthly position because he knew his true home, prompting him to live diligently Coram Deo (before the face of God).
God’s handling offers continuous grace; He constantly grants opportunities to return, just as the Father received the prodigal son.
Daily, we live out a crucified life. Remember: the cross is a burden no one else can carry for you.
Psalm 34:8 says: “Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the one who takes refuge in him.” Faith is not mere intellectual assent or informational knowledge; it demands concrete experience. The Hebrew word for taste (Ta’am) refers to sampling food—checking through direct experience. The word for see (Ra’ah) means to witness with one’s own eyes. Both demand personal, firsthand proof of God’s goodness.
We are the biblical odysseans of this generation. We have a home to return to in God. May we deny ourselves, pick up our crosses daily, and live as faithful servants under His divine handling. Amen.
