Sometimes, we can learn from others’ mistakes.

What not to do is quite often the best wisdom to follow.

Such is the case with my observations from Genesis 37. Here are 3 cautionary lessons for Christians.

1. Parents shouldn’t blatantly prefer one child over the others.

Israel (Jacob) was guilty of treating Joseph better than the rest of his children. The record doesn’t dance around this but states it clearly: “Now Israel loved Joseph more than all his children…” (37:3). This seemingly fueled a rivalry that grew into hatred. “They hated him and could not speak peaceably to them” (37:4).

While parenting is never easy, regardless of the country, culture, or other circumstances, there’s a need for godly caution. Granted, our Creator made all children uniquely different. But that’s where godly parenting learns the need to interact with each one differently.

No, I don’t believe you can treat every child equally so that your parenting is esteemed as perfected equitable care. That’s impossible, too. Because each child is different, the parental support system must adjust and love each child differently.

Whatever you do, don’t publicly shower one child with so much love that their siblings grow to resent their relationship with you.

2. You shouldn’t share your aspirational dreams with everyone.

Even though he was only 17 years old, Joseph should’ve known better than to share his dreams unsolicited. “Joseph had a dream, and he told it to his brothers; and they hated him even more” (37:5). The more he shared, the worse things grew. “they hated him even more for his dreams and for his words” (37:8). Eventually, even “his father rebuked him…” (37:10).

Ideally, your family should be your safe space to reveal the dreams of your heart. They ought to be able to handle your sense of destiny. But ever since the fall of Genesis 3, family dynamics are rarely ideal.

Just because they’re family or appear in your circle doesn’t mean they’re in your corner. Be very selective of the people you share your dreams with. And it’s not just the right people; the right timing must also be considered.

So, read the room. Be sure your inner circle loves you well enough to help you carefully steward your aspirational dreams.

3. You shouldn’t go along with wrong, even if everyone else is doing wrong.

Joseph’s “brothers envied him” (37:11). The regression is apparent. Israel (Jacob) treated him preferentially. Joseph overshared his inner sense of greatness, as evidenced by destiny-formed dreams. His 10 brothers soon had nothing nice to say to him and generally hated him.

Joseph’s father sent him to check his brothers’ wellness. The favored son was on a mission from his father. But they saw him coming from a distance. His polychromatic coat was his visual identifier, and they proclaimed, “Here comes that dreamer!” (37:19, NIV). Way too easily, it appears, they consensually concocted a murderous plot for their little brother!

Thank God for Reuben. He interrupted their desire to kill and offered a pit instead. And while Joseph lives to serve God another day, he is just as good as dead to his family by the end of this chapter.

Friend, it doesn’t matter what the majority’s opinion is; you’re responsible for doing the next right thing. You shouldn’t go along with wrong, even if everyone else is doing wrong.

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I trust you’ve enjoyed these valuable insights. I’m a pastor, and I provided these for Bible-believing Christians. If you’re not a Christian, I’d like to help you with that right now. Follow this link to learn the answer to this question. What Does it Mean to Be a Christian?