Joseph, the Dreamer 

Genesis 37.1-36 and 39.20-41.57 

Was he arrogant and opportunistic, or was he confident and indiscreet, or was he just a dreamer who believed in possibilities? Perhaps the answer is totally dependent upon the view of each reader.

I have frequently noticed greatly diverse responses to people who have strong personalities. One of the problems with 'leadership' is that it is exercised by individuals who do possess strong personality. I've never known a 'leader' who had a weak, or labile personality.

Someone once observed that there never was a "well-balanced Old Testament prophet." It seems that down through history God has consistently chosen folks who had odd, or forceful, or sometimes even unpleasant personalities - to accomplish His tasks and purposes.

Perhaps it isn't too different today. We need to exercise caution as we are tempted to criticize leaders who are 'obviously' ego-driven. Who knows, perhaps "it is God who is at work to will and to do His own good pleasure" through the oddities of folks we certainly wouldn't have chosen.

Isn't it pleasant that God chose us for tasks and will ultimately judge each of us on our own merits and faithfulness?! Let's learn to delight in the oddities of the Kingdom and the faithfulness of God to accomplish His tasks through whomsoever He chooses.