Insight Into the Scriptures - Genesis 49-50
Patriarchal blessings were always taken seriously and considered binding, even though they were not presented as prophetic messages from God. Embalming was usual practice in Egypt for everyone who could afford it, but embalming of Israelites is found only in this passage.
Today we finish Genesis. Genesis started with the creation of the earth, moved onto God's relationship with man and His promise to him, which set the stage for our next book; Exodus. Here we start the story of Moses.
As I was reading the end of Genesis, when Jacob was giving his blessing to his sons, how would have you liked Reuben, Simeon, or Levi? Jacob was very direct and did not promise them a bright future.
Genesis 50:15-21 NIV
"When Joseph's brothers saw that their father was dead, they said, "What if Joseph holds a grudge against us and pays us back for all the wrongs we did to him?" So they sent word to Joseph, saying, "Your father left these instructions before he died: 'This is what you are to say to Joseph: I ask you to forgive your brothers the sins and the wrongs they committed in treating you so badly.' Now please forgive the sins of the servants of the God of your father." When their message came to him, Joseph wept.His brothers then came and threw themselves down before him. "We are your slaves," they said.
But Joseph said to them, "Don't be afraid. Am I in the place of God? You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives. So then, don't be afraid. I will provide for you and your children." And he reassured them and spoke kindly to them."
Thought For The Day
As we end the story of Joseph I believe that God wants us to take away one very important point.
God's plans will not always make sense, but they are always good and perfect. Please read that again. If you can accept this and live it, you will find peace anytime, in any situation in your life. Joseph had some very tough years, but as Joseph said, God had plans for those tough years. If he had not been in prison and been able to interpret those dreams, he would have never been called to interpret Pharaohs' dream, which led to saving many, many lives from famine. Life is NOT going to make sense at times, but, our faith and trust in Christ must not be shaken no matter the situation. He is in control, He knows what you are going through, and He loves you more than you can possibly imagine.
Closing Prayer
Dear Jesus,
I know that I need to work on forgiving other people that hurt me. I know that perfect forgiveness only lies in You, please Jesus draw me close and hold me tight. I love You and am working on trusting You with all my strength. Please be with me today and let Your love shine through me. I need You!
In Your Name,
Amen
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