When God needs to make a man great, He often chooses to place him in a position of adversity. This belief is deeply rooted in many religious and philosophical teachings, suggesting that trials and tribulations are instrumental in shaping a person’s character and abilities. The story of Joseph, as told in the Bible, is a classic example of how God uses hardship to elevate an individual to greatness.
Joseph was a young man favored by his father, Jacob, which led to jealousy among his older brothers. They sold him into slavery in Egypt, where he faced numerous hardships. Despite these challenges, Joseph remained faithful to God and his own principles. His resilience and integrity eventually caught the attention of Pharaoh, who appointed him as the second-in-command over Egypt, saving the nation from a severe famine.
This narrative illustrates that when God needs to make a man great, He often tests his faith, perseverance, and wisdom. The hardships Joseph endured were not merely punishments but rather opportunities for growth. As he overcame each obstacle, he developed qualities such as humility, compassion, and leadership, which ultimately made him great.
Another example of this concept can be found in the life of Moses. As a Hebrew baby, Moses was placed in a basket in the Nile River to escape the Egyptian Pharaoh’s order to kill all Hebrew male infants. Adopted by Pharaoh’s daughter, Moses grew up as an Egyptian prince. However, when he witnessed the mistreatment of his people, he chose to stand up against the oppressive regime, leading to his banishment from Egypt.
During his time in the wilderness, Moses encountered God in the form of a burning bush. God instructed Moses to return to Egypt and lead the Hebrews to freedom. The journey was fraught with challenges, including the Ten Plagues and the crossing of the Red Sea. Despite these trials, Moses remained steadfast in his faith and commitment to God’s plan. His leadership and divine guidance allowed the Hebrews to escape from slavery and journey to the Promised Land.
Moses’ story demonstrates that when God needs to make a man great, He often calls him to a mission that requires extraordinary faith and courage. The obstacles Moses faced were not merely to test his resolve but to prepare him for the role of a great leader, one who would guide his people to a better future.
These examples from the Bible are not isolated incidents; they reflect a broader principle that has been echoed in various cultures and religions. The ancient Greeks, for instance, believed that heroes were forged through suffering and trials. Hercules, the mythical hero, completed his twelve labors after being cast out of his home and enduring numerous hardships.
Similarly, in modern times, many successful individuals have achieved greatness through facing adversity. The story of Steve Jobs, co-founder of Apple Inc., is a testament to this principle. After being fired from the company he founded, Jobs faced personal and professional challenges. However, his resilience and determination allowed him to return to Apple and revolutionize the technology industry.
In conclusion, when God needs to make a man great, He often chooses to place him in a position of adversity. This belief underscores the importance of perseverance, faith, and resilience in the face of challenges. By overcoming trials, individuals can develop the qualities necessary to achieve greatness and fulfill their destinies.
