Faithful Friends of God

Lesson 1: Joseph's Dreams and God's Presence in Egypt

Children learn how young Joseph was given special dreams, faced hard times when his brothers sold him, but knew God was always with him in Egypt.

Genesis 37:1 to 37:11; 39:1 to 39:23 Even in difficult places and lonely times, God is always with us, watching over our lives. Discover how God gave young Joseph special dreams about his future. Learn that God stayed close to Joseph even when he was far away in Egypt. Trust that Jesus is always near us when we feel afraid or lonely. Joseph was the eleventh son of Jacob. Jacob gave Joseph a colorful coat, which made his older brothers jealous. A Colorful Coat and Big Dreams Young Joseph lived in the land of Canaan with his father Jacob and his eleven brothers. Jacob loved Joseph very much and gave him a beautiful, colorful coat. One night, God gave Joseph special dreams showing sheaves of wheat and the sun, moon, and eleven stars bowing down to him. When Joseph told his brothers, they felt jealous and angry. Far Away to Egypt One day, Joseph's brothers took his colorful coat and sold him to merchants traveling to Egypt. Joseph had to leave his home and father behind. It felt lonely and frightening to be in a strange new land with unfamiliar faces and languages. But the Bible tells us the most comforting truth: the Lord was with Joseph. God Blesses Joseph In Egypt, Joseph worked in the house of a captain named Potiphar. Even when unfair things happened and Joseph was put into prison, Joseph worked hard and did what was right. The Lord showed steadfast love to Joseph and blessed everything he did. God had a wonderful plan to use Joseph to save many people. The Lord was with Joseph, and he became a successful man. Genesis 39:2 What special gift did Jacob give to his son Joseph? A silver sword A beautiful colorful coat A golden crown A small donkey A beautiful colorful coat Jacob loved Joseph and gave him a colorful coat that showed his special love. What comforting truth was true about Joseph when he was in Egypt? The Lord was with Joseph Joseph forgot about God Joseph had a big army Joseph built a wooden ship The Lord was with Joseph Even though Joseph was far from home, the Lord was with him every day. What can we remember when we feel lonely or afraid? Hide under a bed forever God is always with us and loves us Get angry at everyone Forget to pray God is always with us and loves us Just as God was with Joseph, God is always with us wherever we go. Draw a picture of Joseph's colorful coat this week and write 'God is with me' across the top. Loving Father, thank you that you never leave us alone. Whenever we feel scared or far from home, remind our hearts that you are right beside us, loving us always. Amen. How do you think Joseph felt when he arrived in Egypt, and what made him feel safe? When is a time you felt scared or lonely, and how did God comfort you? Assure young children that God is present and loving everywhere, even in strange or difficult situations. Show a colorful piece of cloth or ribbon. Ask what their favorite bright colors are. Why were Joseph's brothers so mean? Explain that jealousy makes people hurt others, but God helps us choose love instead. 5 minutes hook, 12 minutes story, 8 minutes memory verse, 10 minutes coloring and prayer.