Jacob, had twelve sons, one of them being Joseph. Joseph was his favorite son, and Jacob often spoiled him because of it including giving him a coat of many colors. (It was red and yellow and green and brown and blue). His brothers became jealous of how their father was treating him and treating Jacob. So, one day, Joseph's brothers sell him into slavery and tell Jacob that Joseph is now dead. Jacob, of course, thinking that Joseph is dead, is heartbroken over the news.

Throughout his time in Egypt, Jacob had so many hardships, but eventually rose to power to become the second highest person in power under the Pharaoh. Joseph helps Egypt prepare for a famine, and because of this famine, his brothers are sent to Egypt for food. They did not recognize Joseph. He would later reveal himself, but it took him time before he would do so. Joseph had forgiven his brothers, and his family came to live with him in Egypt. Here are three lessons we can learn from Joseph.

1. Hard Work Pays Off

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Even though Joseph was a slave and later thrown in prison, he helped the people around him, and worked hard instead of not doing anything. Joseph later becomes the second in command because of it. Plus, Joseph started off as a shepherd, and ended up being second in command despite what life threw his way. Anything is possible.

2. Forgiveness

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Joseph's brothers were jealous, and I totally understand why they were, but instead of working it out the right way, they decided to sell him into slavery and fake his death. I know that me and my brother fight sometimes, but I don't think I could ever do something like this. Nevertheless, Joseph forgave them for what they did. Joseph let go all the bitterness and anger that he was feeling because he knew that he shouldn't be holding onto those because being bitter and angry only hurts you.

3. Don't Lose Hope

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Even when you are at your darkest place, there will always be the light at the end of the tunnel. Joseph was sold into slavery and put into prison for doing nothing wrong. Life didn't look pretty good for him at all. Instead of complaining, Joseph never lost hope.

The story of Joseph is one of my favorites. It's interesting, and there is a lot to learn from the story.