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Genesis 44 - Day 44 (link to reading plan)
Scripture: Genesis 44:16 Observation: Jacob's sons have accomplished their mission to rescue Simeon, purchase food and bring Benjamin back safely to their father. On the other hand, Joseph has set the final trap to determine for himself whether or not his brothers have really changed or if they're just trying to secure food for their father and families. Application: True repentance is a beautiful experience that benefits everyone and should be enjoyed regularly. In chapter 38 we witnessed the repercussions of Judah's insensitivity toward his daughter-in-law Tamar, where-in the end he realized that, "She is more righteous than I am, because I didn’t arrange for her to marry my son Shelah." Whether or not this was the impetus that began Judah's transformation, by chapter 44, we see Judah taking the lead and pleading for Bejamin's release for the sake of their father. Thirty years earlier, Judah was the one that convinced his brothers to spare Joseph's life and sell him to the Ishmaelite traders, "After all, he is our brother - our own flesh and blood." Here, Judah offers to remain as Joseph's slave in place of Benjamin. Prayer: Lord, Your plans to reconcile the world back to Yourself are beautiful. Thank You for the opportunity to participate. Genesis 43 - Day 43 (link to reading plan)
Scripture: Genesis 43:1-2 Observation: When they ran out of food, Jacob instructs his sons to go back to Egypt and buy more. Application: Yes, it sounds absurd coming from God's chosen vessel to bless the world. Think about it this way, if Jacob was like superman or some other hero like character then we would all be discouraged and think to ourselves, "No way can I be like him or accomplish the things that he's done." Yet, because of Jacob's character flaws, we can be encouraged to know that God uses imperfect vessels to accomplish His plans. Prayer: Praise the Lord, from whom all blessings flow. Thank You, God, for trusting me to help You accomplish Your plans. Genesis 42 - Day 42 (link to reading plan)
Scripture: 42:6-7 Observation: As Joseph predicted, a famine devastated Egypt and its surrounding neighbors so that even his father and brothers, who were living in Canaan, were forced to purchase food from Pharoah. Application: It's been over 20 since Joseph was sold into slavery so he isn't the same arrogant, spoiled rotten teenager anymore. However, he must have felt some vindicated when his brothers bowed low before him. The lesson here is that sometimes things do work out in the end. Luckily for us, the end means eternal life with God the Father and Jesus his son. Prayer: Lord, thank You for the hope we have in You. Genesis 41 - Day 41 (link to daily reading plan)
Scripture: Genesis 41:16, 37-40 Observation: Two years after Joseph interprets the cupbearer's dreams and is released from prison, Pharoah has several dreams that disturb him. No one is able to interpret his dreams and suddenly the cupbearer is reminded of Joseph's uncanny ability to discern the mysterious visions. Joseph is brought to Pharoah and he humbly acknowledges that it is God's purview to interpret dreams. However, he and God are on good terms so Joseph explains the dreams and gives Pharoah his recommendations of how he would handle the situation. Application: It's been about 13 long years since Joseph was sold to the Midianite traders. However, in that time he gained valuable experience managing Potiphar's household and then a prison. Without that practical experience, I'm not so sure that Joseph would have been able to step into his new role as the prime minister of Egypt. It takes both confidence and competence to succeed in the real world. Joseph's arrogance was transformed into a humble confidence as he gained the necessary experience to lead well. Prayer: Lord, please help me to recognize every opportunity as a gift from You. Genesis 40 - Day 40 (link to daily reading plan)
Scripture: Genesis 40:20-23 Observation: Joseph interprets the chief cupbearer and chief baker's dreams. Three days later, Joseph's interpretations are fulfilled. The cupbearer is restored to his previous position and the baker is impaled. Application: Our good deeds will not always be recognized, do good anyway. Prayer: Lord, please help me to remember that I'm still here to glorify You and advance Your kingdom. |
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January 2024
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