18 July Genesis 37

The Coat of God’s favour

Genesis 37:3-4 (AMP) “Now Israel (Jacob) loved Joseph more than all his children, because he was the son of his old age; and he made him a multi-coloured tunic. 4 His brothers saw that their father loved Joseph more than all of his brothers; so they hated him and could not speak to him on friendly terms”.

The significance of Joseph's coat of many colours goes beyond its physical appearance. This coat is a powerful symbol of divine favour and a reminder of our spiritual journey. Understanding the spiritual symbolism behind Joseph's coat, we can see how it represents God's favour and blessing upon his life. It signifies Joseph's special anointing, which set him apart from his brothers. This divine favour protected Joseph from harm and positioned him for greatness.

The many colours of Joseph's coat represent the multifaceted nature of God's favour, which encompasses blessings, provision, and abundance. The coat's length signifies God's divine protection, and its adornment reflects the anointing for greatness.

The significance of Joseph’s coat is often overlooked and here follows symbolic examples:

1) A symbol of his birthright and double portion - Genesis 48:21-22 (AMP) “Then Israel said to Joseph, “Behold, I am about to die, but God will be with you, and bring you back to the land of your fathers. 22 Moreover, I have given you one portion more than any of your brothers, which I took from the hand of the Amorites with my sword and with my bow.”

2) God’s favour in Joseph’s life Genesis 37:3 (AMP) “Now Israel (Jacob) loved Joseph more than all his children, because he was the son of his old age; and he made him a multicoloured tunic”.

3) This is a sign of God’s protection Throughout his life, Joseph went through many difficult experiences. He was sold into slavery and thrown into prison. But in every situation, God was with Joseph and protected him. We can see God’s protection and Joseph’s trust in the Lord throughout his life. He knew that God was his source of protection.

David Guzik quoted the following in Enduring Word Commentary: “He was loved and hated, favoured and abused, tempted and trusted, exalted and abased. Yet at no point in the one-hundred-and-ten-year life of Joseph did he ever seem to get his eyes off God or cease to trust him. Adversity did not harden his character. Prosperity did not ruin him. He was the same in private as in public. He was a truly great man.” (Boice)

We all go through difficult times when we clothe ourselves with the garment of praise. When we put on the garment of praise, we refuse to give in to the enemy’s lie that we are too weak to handle whatever life has thrown our way. We acknowledge where our strength comes from God alone. Confirmed by Isaiah 61:3 (CSB) “to provide for those who mourn in Zion; to give them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, festive oil instead of mourning, and splendid clothes instead of despair. And they will be called righteous trees, planted by the Lord to glorify him”. Isaiah 61:10 (NLT) wraps up the argument well: “I am overwhelmed with joy in the Lord my God! For he has dressed me with the clothing of salvation and draped me in a robe of righteousness. I am like a bridegroom dressed for his wedding or a bride with her jewels”.

In conclusion, Joseph's coat of many colours is a profound symbol of God's divine favour and blessing in his life. This distinctive garment, given by his father Jacob, not only signified Joseph's favour status but also represented the multifaceted nature of God's provision and protection. Despite the numerous trials and adversities Joseph faced, including betrayal by his brothers, slavery, and imprisonment, he consistently experienced God's unwavering support and protection. Joseph's life is a testament to steadfast faith and resilience, demonstrating that God's favour and anointing can lead to greatness regardless of external circumstances.

Like Joseph, we too can find strength and solace in God's presence, adorning ourselves with the "garment of praise" and trusting in His divine plan and protection. This story reminds us that God's favour is a powerful force that can guide us through life's challenges and position us for a purpose beyond our understanding.