Gather in Goshen
Today’s Reading: Genesis 46:28-34
Focal Verses: Genesis 46:33-34
“So it shall be, when Pharoah calls you and says, ‘What is your occupation?’ that you shall say, “Your servants’ occupation has been with livestock from our youth even till now, both we and also our fathers,” that you many dwell in the land of Goshen; for every shepherd is an abomination to the Egyptians.”
Have you ever been in a situation that seemed really difficult at the time only to find out later that is kept you from a greater difficulty? That’s what happened to the tribe of Israel. Driven from their land by famine, God goes ahead of them to place Joseph in a position of power so that they could settle peacefully in Egypt. Joseph tells them to say they are shepherds so they can settle in Goshen, a fertile area, out of the “hubbub” and idolatry of Egypt to protect them from losing their own heritage. They would dwell in Goshen for 400 years and grow into a large number of people whose children would eventually be taken into the land God had promised.
God was preserving the family of Israel. Why? The brothers sold one son into slavery and really wanted him dead. Another son slept with one of his father’s concubines (Genesis 35:22). Still, other sons of Israel staged a vicious, vengeful massacre (Genesis 34:20-29). This is the family God chose to save and to bless.
If you are a child of God, He is preserving you, too. You may be in difficult circumstances, but the God who created you knows what is ahead. You can trust in Him. Not because you have merited it, but because of His grace.
Recall the times in your life when God has preserved you. Thank Him for His grace. If you have a fellow brother or sister going through a confusing time, pick up the phone to encourage them today.
No comments:
Post a Comment