The story of Joseph describes the journey of the human soul. Although very gifted and his father's favorite son, he lacked maturity and wisdom. He flaunted his status in front of his brothers and lorded it over them. Filled with anger and resentment, they sold him into slavery. During all his adventures in Egypt, he remembered God and remained faithful to his spiritual principles. He went from prison to the Pharaoh's right-hand man. He was able to save his entire family, and he had gained such maturity that he forgave his brothers. We all face struggles and difficult situations - it is important that through it all, we remember God and remain faithful to God's teachings. Our experiences are our teacher, if we will allow them to be.

God sends us many people and experiences to teach us and keep us on the right path. Like the people in the parable, we often ignore these heaven-sent teachers. The parable warns us that if we fail to heed warnings, we suffer the consequences. If God repeatedly asks us to do something for Him and we refuse or fail to keep our promises, God will find someone else. The choice is ours! Even though God is patient and gives us many opportunities, let us not take God for granted.