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Destined superiority to brethren and parents is the one grand idea that comes out in the strange visions of the night recorded here.

1. This idea was evidently a Divine communication.

2. This idea was expressed at different periods and in different symbols.

3. This idea was felt by all to have a Divine significance.

I. THE VISIONS OF YOUTH. The young generally create bright visions of the future. This tendency serves —

(1)  To increase the amount of man's happiness on this earth.

(2)  To supply a mighty stimulus to our mental powers.

(3)  To intimate what human nature would have been had there been no sin.

II. THE JEALOUSIES OF SOCIETY. Jealousy is a passion that springs from the fear of a rival enjoying advantages which we desire for ourselves.

1. It is very general.

2. It is an unhappy feeling.

3. It is unchristian.

III. THE DESTINY OF VIRTUE.

1. There is much in a virtuous life itself to ensure advancement.

2. Advancement is pledged by God Himself to a virtuous life.Learn:

1. The fate of eminence. To encounter jealousy. Heed it not. March on.

2. The path of glory. Virtue. The beginning may be difficult, but the end will be everlasting life.

(Homilist.)

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KJV: And Joseph dreamed a dream, and he told it his brethren: and they hated him yet the more.

WEB: Joseph dreamed a dream, and he told it to his brothers, and they hated him all the more.