Great Lives Series: Joseph: A Man of Integrity and Forgiveness

I'm now reading Joseph, and I've already read two other character studies in this series by Chuck Swindoll. I've gotten a lot out of all of them. Swindoll does a good job of identifying why the person was and acted the way they did. And he draws many parellels to our lives today. In this book I've learned a lot about the family life Joseph came from: he was a favored son of a passive father. But it's not just the facts that are recounted. Swindoll goes back to study Joseph's father, Jacob, and the behavior and events that shaped him. We learn the impact of all that history on Joseph's life. When the jealous brothers eventually sold him into slavery, this book explores the works God began to do in his life and the immeasurable faith Joseph must have had in order to sustain him through the tough years that followed. I simply enjoy Swindoll's attitude and style. He pulls a lot of wisdom out of the verses in the Bible and helps bring it to life. You can easily imagine yourself in Joseph's shoes and how you would have responded. You learn the lessons of trusting in God through difficult situations and the difference that YOUR attitude can have while you wait.

From the cover: The classic story of a nobody who became somebody, Joseph stands out as a man of remarkable character and integrity. From the lowest level of humanity - slavery - he emerges to the pinnacle of respect. Why? Because he saw God at work even when he was rejected, misunderstood, falsely accused, and forgotten.

Although my favorite Joseph book is 'With Joseph in the University of Adversity: the Mizraim Principles', this one is a close second! If you want a pastor's heart in the telling of the story--this one is best! If you want sound principles for everyday life that you or a graduate can use, and really well-organized--go with 'Mizraim Principles' (if you can get your hands on a copy!). Swindoll does this book as the foundation to a newer series, and this is the precursor to the series. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!!

Although my favorite Joseph book is 'With Joseph in the University of Adversity: the Mizraim Principles', by Dr. Parks, this one is a close second! If you want a pastor's heart in the telling of the story--this one is best! If you want sound principles for everyday life that you or a graduate can use, and really well-organized--go with Parks (if you can get your hands on a copy!). Swindoll does this as part of a series, and it's excellent! These are the best two Joseph books around.

Once again, Charles Swindoll has brought a biblical character to life. I felt as if I was going "through" with Joseph! Mr. Swindoll makes it easy to relate what happen to Joseph with his family relations to today's family. If you're having difficulty relating to the trials and tribulations your family faces, read this book and get a revelation from God!