Scripture: Genesis 45:1-15
Observation: Joseph finally reveals himself to his brothers. He explains the reason God sent him to Egypt was to save the people, and therefore they mustn't be afraid. God had a purpose for Joseph, and He worked everything for good. He tells them they must go to their father and bring him to Egypt along with their entire family, and reside in the land of Goshen. He tells them to tell Jacob about all that has happened and all the good that has come out of his being in Egypt. Then he throws his arms around his brothers and kisses them, and especially weeps over Benjamin.
Application: Again we see a similarity with Joseph's life and Jesus's. Just as Joseph was sent to Egypt to do a task necessary to keep the people alive, Jesus was sent to earth to do an even greater task: give His life as a ransom for all mankind. It may have seemed to the disciples that all their hopes were shattered when Jesus hung on the cross, but it was exactly the opposite. Jesus' death promised life to His disciples, and to us today, if we choose to accept His gift of salvation.
Prayer: And what a wonderful gift You have given us Father! Just as Joseph's life must have seemed like a failure to those around him, Jesus' death must have seemed like a failure to His disciples, yet in both cases You turned what was bad into something great! Joseph was used by You to save the people of his time from the famine, and Jesus saved us from eternal damnation by taking our place on the cross. Thank You Lord for this most magnificent gift! Let me never forget what a huge sacrifice was made for me. In Christ Jesus' name I pray, Amen.
Tuesday, September 25, 2012
Monday, September 10, 2012
Genesis 44
Scripture: Genesis 44:18-34
Observation: Judah, Jacob's fourth son, comes forward in defense of his youngest brother Benjamin. He explains that it was with difficulty that they'd been able to bring Benjamin to Egypt at all, since their father did not want them to take him. If they return to Canaan without their brother, their father will surely die. Judah had promised Jacob that he would bring Benjamin back, and now he presents himself to Joseph as a slave to him in his youngest brother's place, to keep his father from suffering to his death.
Application: It's no wonder that Jesus descended from the tribe of Judah, as we see Judah being the intercessor now between Joseph (whom he doesn't know as his brother) and Benjamin. Judah promised himself as surety for his brother, just as Jesus is surety for all who accept Him as their Savior. It was a hard lesson Judah had to learn, but his repentance for the pain he caused his father is clear in his defense of his brother. I too, have had hard lessons to learn in life, but I'm thankful for my Intercessor, my Mediator between myself and my Father.
Prayer: Lord, I am grateful to You because you gave Yourself as surety for me. You paid the price for my sins, a gift of which I am completely undeserving, but because of Your great love for me and for Our Father in heaven You gave Your life in exchange for mine. I'm humbled by Your mercy; that You, a righteous God, should die for me, a sinner, is something I cannot understand, but something for which I will be eternally thankful. I am glad to be in Your debt, because I know You love me more than I even love myself. I am safe in Your holy arms. Thank You Jesus. Amen.
Observation: Judah, Jacob's fourth son, comes forward in defense of his youngest brother Benjamin. He explains that it was with difficulty that they'd been able to bring Benjamin to Egypt at all, since their father did not want them to take him. If they return to Canaan without their brother, their father will surely die. Judah had promised Jacob that he would bring Benjamin back, and now he presents himself to Joseph as a slave to him in his youngest brother's place, to keep his father from suffering to his death.
Application: It's no wonder that Jesus descended from the tribe of Judah, as we see Judah being the intercessor now between Joseph (whom he doesn't know as his brother) and Benjamin. Judah promised himself as surety for his brother, just as Jesus is surety for all who accept Him as their Savior. It was a hard lesson Judah had to learn, but his repentance for the pain he caused his father is clear in his defense of his brother. I too, have had hard lessons to learn in life, but I'm thankful for my Intercessor, my Mediator between myself and my Father.
Prayer: Lord, I am grateful to You because you gave Yourself as surety for me. You paid the price for my sins, a gift of which I am completely undeserving, but because of Your great love for me and for Our Father in heaven You gave Your life in exchange for mine. I'm humbled by Your mercy; that You, a righteous God, should die for me, a sinner, is something I cannot understand, but something for which I will be eternally thankful. I am glad to be in Your debt, because I know You love me more than I even love myself. I am safe in Your holy arms. Thank You Jesus. Amen.
Friday, September 7, 2012
Genesis 44
Scripture: Genesis 44:1-17
Observation: After their meal, Joseph instructs his stewards to fill his brother's sacks with grain and once again to return their money to them. He also tells them to put his silver cup in Benjamin's sack. They were allowed to leave the next day. Once they'd left the city, Joseph sent his steward after them, accusing them of stealing his silver cup and returning evil for good. When the steward overtakes them and accuses them, they vehemently deny having done any wrong. They are so sure of their innocence they proclaim that if the cup is found on any of them, that brother should die or become a slave. The steward accepts, and proceeds to check each sack. Lo and behold, the cup is found in Benjamin's sack, and the youngest brother is taken as a slave, but his brothers tear their clothes and return with Benjamin and the steward. Joseph then accuses them, and Judah states that they will all stay as slaves, since God has found out their iniquity. Joseph, however, states that only Benjamin need stay on as slave. The rest may leave in peace.
Application: Joseph was testing his brothers. He wanted to see if they still hated Rachel's sons, or if they had changed. Our faith also is tested in our circumstances and by those around us. How will I fare? Will I trust in the Lord and do what is right? Or will I succumb and compromise my beliefs out of fear? Let it not be so! Jesus was faithful in giving His life to pay for my sins. How can I be ungrateful for that gift of salvation? My trust must always be in Him alone.
Prayer: That is my prayer Father, that my faith be found strong in You, that I not trust in myself but believe entirely in Your truth, Your mercy and grace, and in Your Words which You have spoken. Let me not fear men Lord, but give me a boldness to speak Your truth in all situations, never faltering or wavering. May my heart be blameless regarding Your statutes, that I may not be ashamed (Psalm 119:80). In Jesus' name, Amen.
Observation: After their meal, Joseph instructs his stewards to fill his brother's sacks with grain and once again to return their money to them. He also tells them to put his silver cup in Benjamin's sack. They were allowed to leave the next day. Once they'd left the city, Joseph sent his steward after them, accusing them of stealing his silver cup and returning evil for good. When the steward overtakes them and accuses them, they vehemently deny having done any wrong. They are so sure of their innocence they proclaim that if the cup is found on any of them, that brother should die or become a slave. The steward accepts, and proceeds to check each sack. Lo and behold, the cup is found in Benjamin's sack, and the youngest brother is taken as a slave, but his brothers tear their clothes and return with Benjamin and the steward. Joseph then accuses them, and Judah states that they will all stay as slaves, since God has found out their iniquity. Joseph, however, states that only Benjamin need stay on as slave. The rest may leave in peace.
Application: Joseph was testing his brothers. He wanted to see if they still hated Rachel's sons, or if they had changed. Our faith also is tested in our circumstances and by those around us. How will I fare? Will I trust in the Lord and do what is right? Or will I succumb and compromise my beliefs out of fear? Let it not be so! Jesus was faithful in giving His life to pay for my sins. How can I be ungrateful for that gift of salvation? My trust must always be in Him alone.
Prayer: That is my prayer Father, that my faith be found strong in You, that I not trust in myself but believe entirely in Your truth, Your mercy and grace, and in Your Words which You have spoken. Let me not fear men Lord, but give me a boldness to speak Your truth in all situations, never faltering or wavering. May my heart be blameless regarding Your statutes, that I may not be ashamed (Psalm 119:80). In Jesus' name, Amen.
Wednesday, September 5, 2012
Genesis 43
Scripture: Genesis 43:18-34
Observation: As Joseph's brothers are led into the house, they begin to speculate as to why they're getting this special attention. They assume it's because of the money that was returned to them in their sacks the first time they came to buy food. At the first opportunity they tell Joseph's steward what had happened, and inform him that they've brought the money back, but the steward tells them not to worry, and gives the credit to God for them getting their money back. The brothers are given water to wash their feet, food for their donkeys, and made ready to have lunch with Joseph. When Joseph arrives, the brothers hand him the gifts they brought, bowing before him. He asks after their father, then sees Benjamin. He is so overcome with emotion that he has to leave in order that his brothers don't see him break down and weep. Once he's composed himself, he returns and sits down to eat with the men, but he makes sure Benjamin is served five times more than the rest. They all eat and drink, and are merry.
Application: Joseph wanted to see how differently his brothers would treat his younger brother. He remembered how jealous they had been of him, so he had lots of food given to Benjamin and watched his brother's reactions. They'd learned their lesson: to be content. That is a lesson the Lord teaches me daily. Be happy with what I have; after all, everything I have is a blessing from God. To be discontent is to tell God we're not grateful, something He surely does not deserve.
Prayer: Father, Your generosity is beyond words. Everything I have is actually Yours, and You graciously provide me and my family with everything we could possibly need. We have a roof over our heads, clothes on our backs, food in our pantry, transportation, beds, all the things needed to live, but if that weren't enough, You also give us things that are wants because You love us and want to see us enjoy our lives. How can I possibly not be completely content with all You've blessed me with? Yet at times I ask for more and get upset when You say no. Lord, I am undeserving of Your generous provisions. Help me to be grateful for all You do. In Jesus' name, Amen.
Observation: As Joseph's brothers are led into the house, they begin to speculate as to why they're getting this special attention. They assume it's because of the money that was returned to them in their sacks the first time they came to buy food. At the first opportunity they tell Joseph's steward what had happened, and inform him that they've brought the money back, but the steward tells them not to worry, and gives the credit to God for them getting their money back. The brothers are given water to wash their feet, food for their donkeys, and made ready to have lunch with Joseph. When Joseph arrives, the brothers hand him the gifts they brought, bowing before him. He asks after their father, then sees Benjamin. He is so overcome with emotion that he has to leave in order that his brothers don't see him break down and weep. Once he's composed himself, he returns and sits down to eat with the men, but he makes sure Benjamin is served five times more than the rest. They all eat and drink, and are merry.
Application: Joseph wanted to see how differently his brothers would treat his younger brother. He remembered how jealous they had been of him, so he had lots of food given to Benjamin and watched his brother's reactions. They'd learned their lesson: to be content. That is a lesson the Lord teaches me daily. Be happy with what I have; after all, everything I have is a blessing from God. To be discontent is to tell God we're not grateful, something He surely does not deserve.
Prayer: Father, Your generosity is beyond words. Everything I have is actually Yours, and You graciously provide me and my family with everything we could possibly need. We have a roof over our heads, clothes on our backs, food in our pantry, transportation, beds, all the things needed to live, but if that weren't enough, You also give us things that are wants because You love us and want to see us enjoy our lives. How can I possibly not be completely content with all You've blessed me with? Yet at times I ask for more and get upset when You say no. Lord, I am undeserving of Your generous provisions. Help me to be grateful for all You do. In Jesus' name, Amen.
Monday, September 3, 2012
Genesis 43
Scripture: Genesis 43:1-17
Observation: The food has run out, and Jacob tells his sons they need to go back to Egypt and buy more. Judah reminds his father that they cannot go back without Benjamin. He promises his father that Benjamin will come back, and Judah holds himself totally responsible for his youngest brother. Jacob realizes he must relent. He sends his sons, including Benjamin, with the money that had been given back to them in their sacks so they can return it, double that money to buy more grain, and additional gifts of balm, honey, spices, myrrh, pistachios and almonds. He blesses them, and they go on their way. When they arrive in Egypt, Joseph sees his brother, and orders an animal slaughtered so that his brothers can dine with him.
Application: I am most impressed with Jacob's reaction. It must be difficult to let his youngest son leave, but what really caught my attention was all that he sent to purchase more grain. He knew that the first grain purchased was not legitimately paid for, since the money was found in their sacks. Jacob could have counted it as good fortune that his money was returned to him, even if it were by mistake. Instead, he made sure his sons returned the money, and took extra money to buy more food, with gifts besides. Jacob was not out to swindle anyone. If I am in a similar situation, what would I do? If I'm accidentally given extra change at the store, do I return it or keep it because it wasn't my mistake? Honesty goes beyond not telling lies. It means correcting errors, even those made unwittingly.
Prayer: Father, I want to be a person of integrity, like Jacob was. It's not enough for me to be honest in what is seen, but I must also be honest in what is only seen by You. Do not allow me to be tempted into dishonesty, which would dishonor You. I know that honesty is extremely important to You, that You despise lies and deceit. Help me to be a woman that hates them as You do. In Jesus' name, Amen.
Observation: The food has run out, and Jacob tells his sons they need to go back to Egypt and buy more. Judah reminds his father that they cannot go back without Benjamin. He promises his father that Benjamin will come back, and Judah holds himself totally responsible for his youngest brother. Jacob realizes he must relent. He sends his sons, including Benjamin, with the money that had been given back to them in their sacks so they can return it, double that money to buy more grain, and additional gifts of balm, honey, spices, myrrh, pistachios and almonds. He blesses them, and they go on their way. When they arrive in Egypt, Joseph sees his brother, and orders an animal slaughtered so that his brothers can dine with him.
Application: I am most impressed with Jacob's reaction. It must be difficult to let his youngest son leave, but what really caught my attention was all that he sent to purchase more grain. He knew that the first grain purchased was not legitimately paid for, since the money was found in their sacks. Jacob could have counted it as good fortune that his money was returned to him, even if it were by mistake. Instead, he made sure his sons returned the money, and took extra money to buy more food, with gifts besides. Jacob was not out to swindle anyone. If I am in a similar situation, what would I do? If I'm accidentally given extra change at the store, do I return it or keep it because it wasn't my mistake? Honesty goes beyond not telling lies. It means correcting errors, even those made unwittingly.
Prayer: Father, I want to be a person of integrity, like Jacob was. It's not enough for me to be honest in what is seen, but I must also be honest in what is only seen by You. Do not allow me to be tempted into dishonesty, which would dishonor You. I know that honesty is extremely important to You, that You despise lies and deceit. Help me to be a woman that hates them as You do. In Jesus' name, Amen.
Sunday, September 2, 2012
Genesis 42
Scripture: Genesis 42:25 - 38
Observation: When Joseph's brothers arrive back in Canaan with the food they'd bought in Egypt, they're surprised to find their money back in their sacks. Joseph had commanded their money be returned to them, but his brothers thought they were in deep trouble. They then have to tell their father Jacob what has happened with Simeon and what they need to do to bring him home. Jacob is miserable; he has already lost Joseph and Simeon, and now he's in danger of losing Benjamin. He feels that everything is against him. Reuben promises to take Benjamin to Egypt himself, and if he doesn't return with his youngest brother, his father may put to death his own 2 sons, but Jacob is adamant. He will not allow Benjamin to leave. The sorrow if anything happened to his son would be too great and he would die.
Application: Jacob and his sons saw everything that was happening to them as bad. Money returned meant they'd be treated as thieves. A son in jail and another son requested made Jacob think everything against him. Yet it was all quite the contrary - God was working everything out behind the scenes, for their good. The same happens in our everyday lives. Too many times my circumstances seem dire, and I'm so focused on my troubles that I forget God works all things together for good (Romans 8:28). No matter what is happening in my life right now, no matter how bad it all looks, God can turn it all around faster than I can say Praise the Lord!
Prayer: Father, my life is certainly not perfect. Things don't always go the way I think they should, or expected them to. But I have faith in You, Lord, and I know that You are with me always as You promised, so no matter what my circumstances are You are in control. I put my sorrows and my troubles at the foot of the cross, and await Your reply to my prayers as You work behind the scenes for my good. In Christ Jesus' name I pray, Amen.
Observation: When Joseph's brothers arrive back in Canaan with the food they'd bought in Egypt, they're surprised to find their money back in their sacks. Joseph had commanded their money be returned to them, but his brothers thought they were in deep trouble. They then have to tell their father Jacob what has happened with Simeon and what they need to do to bring him home. Jacob is miserable; he has already lost Joseph and Simeon, and now he's in danger of losing Benjamin. He feels that everything is against him. Reuben promises to take Benjamin to Egypt himself, and if he doesn't return with his youngest brother, his father may put to death his own 2 sons, but Jacob is adamant. He will not allow Benjamin to leave. The sorrow if anything happened to his son would be too great and he would die.
Application: Jacob and his sons saw everything that was happening to them as bad. Money returned meant they'd be treated as thieves. A son in jail and another son requested made Jacob think everything against him. Yet it was all quite the contrary - God was working everything out behind the scenes, for their good. The same happens in our everyday lives. Too many times my circumstances seem dire, and I'm so focused on my troubles that I forget God works all things together for good (Romans 8:28). No matter what is happening in my life right now, no matter how bad it all looks, God can turn it all around faster than I can say Praise the Lord!
Prayer: Father, my life is certainly not perfect. Things don't always go the way I think they should, or expected them to. But I have faith in You, Lord, and I know that You are with me always as You promised, so no matter what my circumstances are You are in control. I put my sorrows and my troubles at the foot of the cross, and await Your reply to my prayers as You work behind the scenes for my good. In Christ Jesus' name I pray, Amen.
Saturday, September 1, 2012
Genesis 42
Scripture: Genesis 42:1-24
Observation: The famine has extended to all parts, and Jacob's family in Canaan is feeling the effects. Jacob tells his sons to go to Egypt and get food - all but Benjamin, his youngest. By now Joseph is governor in Egypt, and to get food they must go to see him. Many years have passed, and Joseph's brothers don't recognize him, but Joseph recognizes them. He accuses them of coming as spies and gives them a test to see if they are what they say they are, honest men looking for food. They are to leave one of their brothers behind, and he will be put in jail until the other brothers return with their youngest brother. They are terrified; they believe this is punishment brought upon them for the way they treated Joseph years before. Reuben angrily reminds them that he told them not to do this but they wouldn't listen, and now they are paying the consequences. All this time Joseph is listening and understands every word.
Application: We may think we've gotten away with things done in the past, but the past has a way of catching up with us. These brothers lived with the torture of what they'd done, so that now, over 20 years later, they are still living under the shadow of their sinful action. I know what it's like to make a mistake and regret it for the rest of my life, but I also know about saving grace. I know Jesus is forgiving, and I know He gives second chances. This is a great comfort, but not an excuse to sin. I don't want to live like Joseph's brothers, awaiting consequences to my actions at every turn.
Prayer: Father, I am thankful to You for Your forgiveness. I have sinned over and over, and even now, knowing how You hate sin, I am not free from it, but I know Your loving kindness overextends itself. Do not allow me to use this grace in a way that is unworthy, Lord, but instead help me to live a life that glorifies You. I want a life filled with good consequences, not bad ones. I want the world to see Jesus through my life. Thank You Father. In Christ Jesus' name I pray, Amen.
Observation: The famine has extended to all parts, and Jacob's family in Canaan is feeling the effects. Jacob tells his sons to go to Egypt and get food - all but Benjamin, his youngest. By now Joseph is governor in Egypt, and to get food they must go to see him. Many years have passed, and Joseph's brothers don't recognize him, but Joseph recognizes them. He accuses them of coming as spies and gives them a test to see if they are what they say they are, honest men looking for food. They are to leave one of their brothers behind, and he will be put in jail until the other brothers return with their youngest brother. They are terrified; they believe this is punishment brought upon them for the way they treated Joseph years before. Reuben angrily reminds them that he told them not to do this but they wouldn't listen, and now they are paying the consequences. All this time Joseph is listening and understands every word.
Application: We may think we've gotten away with things done in the past, but the past has a way of catching up with us. These brothers lived with the torture of what they'd done, so that now, over 20 years later, they are still living under the shadow of their sinful action. I know what it's like to make a mistake and regret it for the rest of my life, but I also know about saving grace. I know Jesus is forgiving, and I know He gives second chances. This is a great comfort, but not an excuse to sin. I don't want to live like Joseph's brothers, awaiting consequences to my actions at every turn.
Prayer: Father, I am thankful to You for Your forgiveness. I have sinned over and over, and even now, knowing how You hate sin, I am not free from it, but I know Your loving kindness overextends itself. Do not allow me to use this grace in a way that is unworthy, Lord, but instead help me to live a life that glorifies You. I want a life filled with good consequences, not bad ones. I want the world to see Jesus through my life. Thank You Father. In Christ Jesus' name I pray, Amen.
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