To my knowledge, there were no counsellors or emotional support groups when Joseph needed them most.
And yet, Joseph managed to process his stuff and come through in an emotional healthy condition.
Remember:
Rejected
Beaten
Stripped of identity
Discarded
Sold
Purchased like a commodity
Given a break (of sorts) ‘Minor’ success, perspective
Lured trapped and accused
Left identity once again
Stripped again of identity
Plunged deeper
Prisoner
Dream Catcher
Dream interpreter
2nd in command
Joseph did something in his day that clearly spoke to his mental health and showed that he properly and thoroughly processed.
He had two sons and spoke of his life through their names.
1) Manasseh – forget – “It is because God has made me forget all my trouble and all my father’s household.” (Genesis 41:51, NIV)
2) Ephraim – twice fruitful – “It is because God has made me fruitful in the land of my suffering.” (Genesis 41:52, NIV)
He had this figured out still years before he met his family again.
I find this story amazing and an abundant source of hope.
How about you?
You Don’t Have To Live; You Get To!