Undeserved Favor

Undeserved Favor

¹⁴ Then he fell on his brother Benjamin’s neck and wept, and Benjamin wept on his neck. ¹⁵ Moreover he kissed all his brothers and wept over them, and after that his brothers talked with him.

 

¹⁶ Now the report of it was heard in Pharaoh’s house, saying, “Joseph’s brothers have come.” So it pleased Pharaoh and his servants well. ¹⁷ And Pharaoh said to Joseph, “Say to your brothers, ‘Do this: Load your animals and depart; go to the land of Canaan. ¹⁸ Bring your father and your households and come to me; I will give you the best of the land of Egypt, and you will eat the ^[c]fat of the land. ¹⁹ Now you are commanded—do this: Take carts out of the land of Egypt for your little ones and your wives; bring your father and come. ²⁰ Also do not be concerned about your goods, for the best of all the land of Egypt is yours.’ ”

 

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During Joseph’s big reveal of his identity to his brothers, his weeping was so loud that all the Egyptians around him could hear. News made it to Pharaoh’s house making him aware that Joseph had long-lost brothers. Pharaoh told his brothers that he would give them the best land.

 

My Observations:

• Pharoah saw the power of GOD through Joseph and probably wanted more power so he gave the brothers the best land.
• Pharaoh was inviting towards Joseph’s family possibly for his own selfish reasons, but little did he know it was part of GOD’s plan.
• Joseph’s family was about to experience a luxurious lifestyle despite their hateful, jealous, lying and blaming ways.

 

Jacob, who was renamed to Israel, was a deceiver. His son’s murdered a town of men and raided the town of everything. They also planned out the murder of their own brother. BUT GOD made a promise to Abraham that HE would keep. HE saw the sins of Israel, his son’s sins, your sins and mine and forgave us through belief in JESUS.

 

Sometimes we try to think that life can be “fair,” but if it were, we would already be eternally condemned. We don’t want fair, we want grace and mercy. Joseph’s pain was now turned into provision for his entire family. Even Pharaoh, who looked at himself as a god, recognized the power of the MOST HIH GOD.

 

Challenge

• Why do you think GOD told Moses about Pharaoh’s decree?
• Have you ever experienced undeserved favor?
• Is your focus on blame or blessings from GOD?

Excited to be Reunited

Excited to be Reunited

Genesis 45: ⁹ “Hurry and go up to my father, and say to him, ‘Thus says your son Joseph: “God has made me lord of all Egypt; come down to me, do not tarry. ¹⁰ You shall dwell in the land of Goshen, and you shall be near to me, you and your children, your children’s children, your flocks and your herds, and all that you have. ¹¹ There I will provide for you, lest you and your household, and all that you have, come to poverty; for there are still five years of famine.” ’

 

¹² “And behold, your eyes and the eyes of my brother Benjamin see that it is my mouth that speaks to you. ¹³ So you shall tell my father of all my glory in Egypt, and of all that you have seen; and you shall hurry and bring my father down here.”

 

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After Joseph revealed his identity to his brothers, he told them to “hurry up” and get his father.

 

My Observations:

• Joseph had not seen his father in decades and was filled with excitement!
• Joseph gave his brothers words that should fill Israel up with excitement.
• Joseph made sure to mention to Israel that GOD would make the famine last another five years, so that he would not refuse.

 

GOD was moving the twelve tribes of Israel to the promised land and no one knew what HE was doing. HE made the famine and HE raised Joseph to a position of power to enable the movement of his brothers to Egypt which was near the promised land. Israel and his sons would not have moved otherwise.

 

Joseph was so excited that he could hardly wait! He was put in a position where he had plenty to provide for his entire family and their families. This reunion was ordained by GOD.

 

Challenge

• Why does GOD tell Moses about Joseph’s commends to his brothers?
• Have you ever wondered if you will see GOD’s deliverance?
• What famine are you in and how is GOD using it to deliver you and HIS people?

Life Preserver

Life Preserver

Genesis 45: Then Joseph could not restrain himself before all those who stood by him, and he cried out, “Make everyone go out from me!” So no one stood with him while Joseph made himself known to his brothers. ² And he wept aloud, and the Egyptians and the house of Pharaoh heard it.

 

³ Then Joseph said to his brothers, “I am Joseph; does my father still live?” But his brothers could not answer him, for they were dismayed in his presence. ⁴ And Joseph said to his brothers, “Please come near to me.” So they came near. Then he said: “I am Joseph your brother, whom you sold into Egypt. ⁵ But now, do not therefore be grieved or angry with yourselves because you sold me here; for God sent me before you to preserve life. ⁶ For these two years the famine has been in the land, and there are still five years in which there will be neither plowing nor harvesting. ⁷ And God sent me before you to preserve a ^[a]posterity for you in the earth, and to save your lives by a great deliverance. ⁸ So now it was not you who sent me here, but God; and He has made me a father to Pharaoh, and lord of all his house, and a ruler throughout all the land of Egypt.

 

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After Judah’s appeal to take the place of Benjamin, Joseph could no longer restrain himself. Joseph had his house steward place his cup in Benjamin’s sack along with the food that he purchased. When all of his brothers were told to return to Egypt, they were terrified. But Joseph had a big reveal for them.

 

My Observations:

• Joseph could no longer pretend to be an Egyptian to his brothers.
• Joseph was so overcome with emotions, that he wept aloud and sent the Egyptians away.
• Joseph explained to his brothers that what they meant for evil, GOD meant for good.

 

Hatred was the motive behind the brother’s actions. They hated Joseph so much, that they wanted to kill him but settled for selling him into slavery. When Joseph revealed he was alive and in charge of Egypt, the brothers got scared.

 

Joseph assured the brothers by explaining that GOD put him in the situations he had gone through. Being thrown in a pit by his brothers, and being accused of attempted rape by Potiphar’s wife and being thrown in prison were all part of GOD’s mysterious plan. Joseph was placed in the highest position because GOD wanted him there. GOD sent Joseph to Egypt to be a life preserver.

 

Challenge

• Why did GOD tell Moses about Joseph’s big reveal to his brothers?
• What difficulties are you facing?
• Could GOD be using the difficulties in your life as a way to help many other people in the future?

True Intercession

True Intercession

Genesis 44: ³⁰ “Now therefore, when I come to your servant my father, and the lad is not with us, since his life is bound up in the lad’s life, ³¹ it will happen, when he sees that the lad is not with us, that he will die. So your servants will bring down the gray hair of your servant our father with sorrow to the grave. ³² For your servant became surety for the lad to my father, saying, ‘If I do not bring him back to you, then I shall bear the blame before my father forever.’ ³³ Now therefore, please let your servant remain instead of the lad as a slave to my lord, and let the lad go up with his brothers. ³⁴ For how shall I go up to my father if the lad is not with me, lest perhaps I see the evil that would come upon my father?”

 

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Judah concludes his appeal to Joseph by saying his father would die if Benjamin did not return. He also explained that he told Israel that he would be responsible. Judah interceded for Benjamin by saying he would become Joseph’s slave.

 

My Observations:

• Judah had nothing to gain and everything to lose.
• Judah wanted to keep his promise even though the consequences would cause him to lose his freedom.
• Judah expressed that he wanted his father to live and that he wanted Benjamin safely returned.

 

Intercession is sometimes a little harder than we think. It could mean giving up everything for someone else to go free. That is what CHRIST did for us. HE gave up everything for you and me to become freed from the consequences of sin.

 

Judah had no idea what was in store for him. All he knew was Simeon spent months in prison and that his brother Joseph was a slave or possibly dead. His intercession would cause him to lose his flocks, friends and family. It was more than a few seconds of prayer. Judah had true intercession.

 

Challenge

• Why does GOD tell Moses about Judah’s decision to become a slave?
• Have you ever had ti vouch for someone’s reputation, not knowing if your reputation would be tarnished by doing so?
• Is GOD growing you up from safe intercession to something greater?

Honest Summary

Honest Summary

Genesis 44: ²⁴ “So it was, when we went up to your servant my father, that we told him the words of my lord. ²⁵ And our father said, ‘Go back and buy us a little food.’ ²⁶ But we said, ‘We cannot go down; if our youngest brother is with us, then we will go down; for we may not see the man’s face unless our youngest brother is with us.’ ²⁷ Then your servant my father said to us, ‘You know that my wife bore me two sons; ²⁸ and the one went out from me, and I said, “Surely he is torn to pieces”; and I have not seen him since. ²⁹ But if you take this one also from me, and calamity befalls him, you shall bring down my gray hair with sorrow to the grave.’

 

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Being forced to turn around from their journey home, Judah carefully explains what happened in an attempt to apply logic to an illogical situation. Joseph had the servant of his house place his silver cup in Benjamin’s sack. To top it off, Joseph said Benjamin would need to stay as a slave and the rest could go free.

 

My Observations:

• Judah summarized the conversation with his father by using the truth.
• Judah explained how his father would feel if Benjamin did not return.
• Judah explained that his father experienced a great deal of loss when Joseph was presumed dead.

 

Facing a dire situation, the best thing was to tell the truth. He said how Israel felt possibly to appeal to the human side of Joseph. He did not know he was speaking to Joseph so he did not have anything to gain by lying.

 

Judah said the truth in front of his brothers who were conspirators in the attempted murder of their brother. Judah never said who was the primary contributor to the murder attempt, rather he kept his conversation focused on the truth of Israel's sadness.

 

Challenge

• Why does GOD tell Moses about Judah’s summary of his conversation to Israel?
• Have you ever been in a situation that you caused and knew it was time to start telling the truth to keep you from getting in deeper trouble?
• Is your summary of what happened filled with the truth so GOD will be pleased?

Careful Approach

Careful Approach

Genesis 44: ¹⁸ Then Judah came near to him and said: “O my lord, please let your servant speak a word in my lord’s hearing, and do not let your anger burn against your servant; for you are even like Pharaoh. ¹⁹ My lord asked his servants, saying, ‘Have you a father or a brother?’ ²⁰ And we said to my lord, ‘We have a father, an old man, and a child of his old age, who is young; his brother is dead, and he alone is left of his mother’s children, and his father loves him.’ ²¹ Then you said to your servants, ‘Bring him down to me, that I may set my eyes on him.’ ²² And we said to my lord, ‘The lad cannot leave his father, for if he should leave his father, his father would die.’ ²³ But you said to your servants, ‘Unless your youngest brother comes down with you, you shall see my face no more.’

 

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Reluctantly, Israel allowed Benjamin to go to Egypt with his brothers to fulfil the terms of Joseph. Judah said he would be responsible for Benjamin and would return with him. But Joseph had his silver cup hidden in Benjamin’s sack. Judah had to respond to the difficult situation.

 

My Observations:

• Judah recognized Joseph’s position and acknowledged his role.
• Judah chose his words carefully when recapping Joseph’s request of them to bring Benjamin to Egypt.
• Judah mentioned that he and his brothers are servants so Joseph would not get placed on guard.

 

Tense situations need a careful approach that may include humbling yourself. Judah saw a situation that could not be won by blaming Joseph or by not admitting to what happened. Even though the situation was manufactured, Judah recapped the situation in a way that would possibly help Joseph hear his plea.

 

Judah was humble, thoughtful and very cautious with his words. This was a dire situation that required him to grow tremendously. He had to speak up for his brother and show respect to Joseph. GOD saw this exchange of words and was changing everyone.

 

Challenge

• Why did GOD tell Moses about Judah’s careful approach?
• What things are you trying to get that you are possibly blaming others versus adjusting your approach?
• Are there some ways to your approach that could use some humble adjustments that need courage from GOD?

Singled Out

Singled Out

Genesis 44: ¹⁴ So Judah and his brothers came to Joseph’s house, and he was still there; and they fell before him on the ground. ¹⁵ And Joseph said to them, “What deed is this you have done? Did you not know that such a man as I can certainly practice divination?”

 

¹⁶ Then Judah said, “What shall we say to my lord? What shall we speak? Or how shall we clear ourselves? God has found out the iniquity of your servants; here we are, my lord’s slaves, both we and he also with whom the cup was found.”

 

¹⁷ But he said, “Far be it from me that I should do so; the man in whose hand the cup was found, he shall be my slave. And as for you, go up in peace to your father.”

 

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Their worse fear had come true. Before the journey began, Judah assured Israel that nothing would happen to Benjamin. Now all eleven brothers were in front of Joseph again, this time with serious accusations. Judah volunteered all of them to become slaves of Joseph. But Joseph singled out Benjamin.

 

My Observations:

• Joseph knew how precious he and Benjamin were to Israel.
• Joseph took the special thing from his brothers, namely Benjamin.
• Joseph had no intention of making Benjamin a slave.

 

Adversity shows the real character of a person in his or her reaction to the situation. Judah responded well because he had no explanation for the situation. All he could do was surrender. Same with you and me. We may fight to stay the same, yet we need to surrender to GOD.

 

Challenge

• Why does GOD tell Moses about the conversation between Judah and Joseph?
• Have you ever gone through something and wondered “Why me?”
• Are you prepared for GOD to grow you and can you see the current situation is part of HIS growth plan?

Necessary U-Turn

Necessary U-Turn

Genesis 44: ⁶ So he overtook them, and he spoke to them these same words. ⁷ And they said to him, “Why does my lord say these words? Far be it from us that your servants should do such a thing. ⁸ Look, we brought back to you from the land of Canaan the money which we found in the mouth of our sacks. How then could we steal silver or gold from your lord’s house? ⁹ With whomever of your servants it is found, let him die, and we also will be my lord’s slaves.”

 

¹⁰ And he said, “Now also let it be according to your words; he with whom it is found shall be my slave, and you shall be blameless.” ¹¹ Then each man speedily let down his sack to the ground, and each opened his sack. ¹² So he searched. He began with the oldest and left off with the youngest; and the cup was found in Benjamin’s sack. ¹³ Then they tore their clothes, and each man loaded his donkey and returned to the city.

 

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Following Joseph’s command, the steward of the house chased after Joseph’s brothers and said the exact words Joseph told him to say. The brothers were innocent, but did not know they had been set up. They now had Simeon and Benjamin and had just celebrated with a feast with Joseph. But they were being told to return to Egypt for possible enslavement.

 

My Observations:

• Just when the brothers thought everything was good, they had to face another problem.
• The brothers did not know they were being set up.
• Joseph’s plan to make the brothers feel uncomfortable was working, but he was protecting them versus harming them as they thought.

 

Whenever something goes “wrong” we yell at GOD and say “Come on!” Joseph’s brothers could not figure out how money and Joseph’s cup were in their sacks. All they could do was load the donkeys and ride back to Egypt.

 

Doom wiped away any delight they had. Simeon probably feared the worst. He had spent months in prison and now as facing charges of stealing from the governor of Egypt. But little did they know that GOD was orchestrating a plan for their comfort. This U-Turn was important.

 

Challenge

• Why does GOD tell Moses about the actions of the steward of the house?
• Have you ever been in an unfavorable position and thought GOD had left you?
• Are you willing to remember GOD’s promise that HE will never leave you or forsake you?

Pain Demonstration

Pain Demonstration

Genesis 44: And he commanded the steward of his house, saying, “Fill the men’s sacks with food, as much as they can carry, and put each man’s money in the mouth of his sack. ² Also put my cup, the silver cup, in the mouth of the sack of the youngest, and his grain money.” So he did according to the word that Joseph had spoken. ³ As soon as the morning dawned, the men were sent away, they and their donkeys. ⁴ When they had gone out of the city, and were not yet far off, Joseph said to his steward, “Get up, follow the men; and when you overtake them, say to them, ‘Why have you repaid evil for good? ⁵ Is not this the one from which my lord drinks, and with which he indeed practices divination? You have done evil in so doing.’ ”

 

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After the feast, Joseph had the steward of the house fill his brothers’ sacks with food and money again, just like last time. But this time he gave special instructions to add his silver cup to Benjamin’s sack. Joseph also staged a pretense with the steward of the house.

 

My Observations:

• Joseph had a plan to set up his brothers by making them look like thieves.
• Joseph may have wanted them to see how it felt to be in danger, or possibly killed.
• Joseph had no intention of harming his brothers, but may have wanted to let them know that what they did was not right.

 

Vengeance would have been easy for Joseph. He could have had them all thrown in prison for the rest of his life, but that is not what GOD wanted. Even through Joseph’s pain, he had GOD guiding him. He was working through this deep hurt, so he set his brothers up.

 

What would you do? I would probably do the same. Joseph missed out on being with his father for decades, due to their jealousy. His plan to make them feel embarrassed could not erase the cruelty they placed on him. Joseph also made it look like his power for seeing the future came from a cup. This would have been typical for an Egyptian as they worshipped inanimate objects.

 

Challenge

• Why does GOD tell Moses about Joseph’s plan to embarrass his brothers?
• Have you ever been put in a spot where you could get revenge?
• Will you let go of getting revenge and allow GOD to take care of the situation HIS way and in HIS time?

Seating Arrangements

Seating Arrangements

Genesis 43: ³² So they set him a place by himself, and them by themselves, and the Egyptians who ate with him by themselves; because the Egyptians could not eat food with the Hebrews, for that is an abomination to the Egyptians. ³³ And they sat before him, the firstborn according to his birthright and the youngest according to his youth; and the men looked in astonishment at one another. ³⁴ Then he took servings to them from before him, but Benjamin’s serving was five times as much as any of theirs. So they drank and were merry with him.

 

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Even though Joseph was appointed governor of al of Egypt, he was still an outsider according to the Egyptians. They set a place for him to eat by himself and they made a spot for themselves. They set Joseph’s brothers in another place and arranged them from oldest to youngest.

 

My Observations:

• Egyptians revered themselves as smarter, stronger and more supreme than any other race.
• Most Hebrews were people who follow GOD and were probably viewed as strange, but dangerous.
• Joseph must have informed the Egyptians about his brothers ages and had them seated accordingly.

 

This seating arrangement spoke volumes about the relationship between Egyptians and the Hebrews. Eating was a special time that could not be shared with Hebrews, according to Egyptian culture. More than likely, a person who interacted too much with Hebrews, would be shunned and lose their place in society.

 

But Joseph was a strange anomaly. He was a slave who was placed over all of Egypt. They had to accept his commands, according to Pharaoh who was seen as a god. They obeyed Joseph and seated his brothers according to their age. He also gave Benjamin five times as much as any of theirs. The brothers celebrated with Benjamin.

 

Challenge

• Why does GOD tell Moses about the Egyptian seating arrangements?
• Have you ever been made to feel less than everyone else?
• Do you believe you are a child of GOD and you are not “less than” but made wonderfully?

Getting It Back Together

Getting It Back Together

Genesis 43: ²⁹ Then he lifted his eyes and saw his brother Benjamin, his mother’s son, and said, “Is this your younger brother of whom you spoke to me?” And he said, “God be gracious to you, my son.” ³⁰ Now his heart yearned for his brother; so Joseph made haste and sought somewhere to weep. And he went into his chamber and wept there. ³¹ Then he washed his face and came out; and he restrained himself, and said, “Serve the bread.”

 

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Joseph was seventeen years old when GOD gave him the dreams. He was thrown into a pit, sold into slavery, put in charge of a house, falsely accused of rape, put in prison, taken out of prison to interpret Pharaohs’ dreams and placed over all of Egypt. Seven years of plenty happened and now the world was in the middle of seven years of famine. Joseph was now right around forty years old. He had not seen his brother in decades.

 

My Observations:

• Joseph was filled with extreme emotions by seeing Benjamin.
• Joseph may have given up on ever seeing Benjamin or his father again.
• Joseph could not contain his emotions and had to leave the dinner to cry, then get himself together to be the strong leader the Egyptians expected.

 

Being sold into slavery did not make Joseph cry. Nor did being thrown into prison, or being left in prison. He cried when he saw his brother alive and was overcome with joy. He could not show the Egyptians his deep love he had for his brother.

 

Joseph went into his chamber and had a good cry. He then washed his face and got himself together enough to command “Serve the bread.” Everyone had to wait for him to return before a bite was eaten.  GOD brought joy back into Joseph’s life.

 

Challenge

• Why does GOD tell Moses about Joseph’s reaction to seeing Benjamin?
• Have you ever been so filled with joy that you just cried?
• Can you believe that GOD enjoys giving you joy and has plenty for you today?

Presents

Presents

Genesis 43: ²⁴ So the man brought the men into Joseph’s house and gave them water, and they washed their feet; and he gave their donkeys feed. ²⁵ Then they made the present ready for Joseph’s coming at noon, for they heard that they would eat bread there.

 

²⁶ And when Joseph came home, they brought him the present which was in their hand into the house, and bowed down before him to the earth. ²⁷ Then he asked them about their well-being, and said, “Is your father well, the old man of whom you spoke? Is he still alive?”

 

²⁸ And they answered, “Your servant our father is in good health; he is still alive.” And they bowed their heads down and prostrated themselves.

 

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Israel had prepared his sons by sending gifts for Joseph. They had no idea they would end up at a feast in Joseph’s house. The steward of Joseph’s house “gave” them water to wash their feet. He also “gave” the donkeys feed. When Joseph arrived, his brothers “brought him the present.”

 

My Observations:

• Even the animals got something during this reunion.
• Joseph’s brothers received clean feet and knew food was coming.
• Joseph received a present from Israel and his brothers as they bowed down to him.

 

Just as GOD told Joseph in the dream, Joseph’s brothers bowed down to him. This was not the desire of Joseph, rather a statement of fact. Joseph did not need their gift, but the present was sent by Israel to create good relations between his family and the Egyptians.

 

This time Joseph asked questions about his father. The brothers answered saying “Your servant our father is in good health; he is still alive.” More than likely these words were considered the best present Joseph could get.

 

Challenge

• Why does GOD tell Moses about all the giving that happened in Joseph’s house?
• Has fear taken away your generosity?
• If you don’t have money to give, what else can you give someone to show generosity?

Unexpected Peace

Unexpected Peace

Genesis 43: ¹⁹ When they drew near to the steward of Joseph’s house, they talked with him at the door of the house, ²⁰ and said, “O sir, we indeed came down the first time to buy food; ²¹ but it happened, when we came to the encampment, that we opened our sacks, and there, each man’s money was in the mouth of his sack, our money in full weight; so we have brought it back in our hand. ²² And we have brought down other money in our hands to buy food. We do not know who put our money in our sacks.”

 

²³ But he said, “Peace be with you, do not be afraid. Your God and the God of your father has given you treasure in your sacks; I had your money.” Then he brought Simeon out to them.

 

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Nervously, the brothers of Joseph explained to the steward of the house that their money had been placed in their sacks. The steward of the house said “Peace be with you, do not be afraid. Your God and the God of your father has given you treasure in your sacks; I had your money.”

 

My Observations:

• Joseph must have told the steward of the house about GOD and may have revealed that he believes in the one and only GOD.
• The steward of the house recognized that Joseph’s brothers were blessed through Joseph’s belief in GOD.
• The steward of the house comforted Joseph’s brothers by saying “Your GOD and the GOD of your father has given you treasure in your sacks.”

 

Referencing GOD as the one who put the treasure in the sacks could be seen as strange, especially as spoken by an Egyptian. The steward of the house was not calling himself GOD, yet he knew he placed the money into the sack. He was speaking of something greater than his action, namely the moving of the SPIRIT of GOD.

 

Joseph’s brothers did not deserve favor. They finally told the truth and were willing to face the consequences. But little did they know that GOD was blessing them through Joseph. They expected jail or even death, BUT GOD gave them peace for the moment.

 

Challenge

• Why does GOD tell Moses about what the steward of the house told Joseph’s brothers?
• Have you ever expected the worst and was given the best?
• Do you know GOD can’t wait to bless you but HE has a specific time for it?

Erased Guilt

Erased Guilt

Genesis 43: ¹⁵ So the men took that present and Benjamin, and they took double money in their hand, and arose and went down to Egypt; and they stood before Joseph. ¹⁶ When Joseph saw Benjamin with them, he said to the steward of his house, “Take these men to my home, and slaughter an animal and make ready; for these men will dine with me at noon.” ¹⁷ Then the man did as Joseph ordered, and the man brought the men into Joseph’s house.

 

¹⁸ Now the men were afraid because they were brought into Joseph’s house; and they said, “It is because of the money, which was returned in our sacks the first time, that we are brought in, so that he may make a case against us and seize us, to take us as slaves with our donkeys.”

 

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Joseph’s brothers did as Israel told them to do. They took Benjamin and the presents and the extra money to Joseph. When Joseph saw Benjamin with his brothers, he ordered the “steward of the house” to take them to his home and make a feast.

 

My Observations:

• Joseph may have suspected that his brothers would have killed Benjamin, so he needed to see him alive.
• Joseph started off as a steward of Potiphar’s house and now he had a steward waiting on him.
• Joseph’s brothers felt guilty, but little did they know, their guilt was erased.

 

Thinking about the mistakes they made over the years led them to a conclusion that they were about to be sentenced. It wasn’t just about the money, rather it was their guilty lives. Up to this point, they tried to kill Joseph, then sold him into slavery and covered up what they had done. Then when Simeon was put in prison, they told Israel a half-truth.

 

Now the brothers were being invited to a feast and they could not see this as a blessing. They thought the worst by saying they would be taken as slaves, possibly like they did to Joseph. They had no idea their guilt had been erased.

 

Challenge

• Why does GOD tell Moses about the reaction of Joseph’s brothers when they were invited to a feast?
• Have you ever felt guilty and had your mind made up that you are about to be punished?
• Do you realize that JESUS was tempted in every way you have so HE is sympathetic to the way you feel and loves you dearly?

Reluctant Acceptance

Reluctant Acceptance

Genesis 43: ¹¹ And their father Israel said to them, “If it must be so, then do this: Take some of the best fruits of the land in your vessels and carry down a present for the man—a little balm and a little honey, spices and myrrh, pistachio nuts and almonds. ¹² Take double money in your hand, and take back in your hand the money that was returned in the mouth of your sacks; perhaps it was an oversight. ¹³ Take your brother also, and arise, go back to the man. ¹⁴ And may God Almighty give you mercy before the man, that he may release your other brother and Benjamin. If I am bereaved, I am bereaved!”

 

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Seeing there were no other options, Israel reluctantly accepted the fact that Benjamin had to be sent to Egypt. He told his sons to take the money that was returned to them and give it to the Egyptians. He also said give them special items from the land.

 

My Observations:

• Israel finally accepted that the famine was still there and he had to do something.
• Israel did not mention Simeon’s name, but he did mention Benjamin, which shows he and Simeon still had strife between them over Dinah’s assault.
• Israel seemed to brace himself to also lose Benjamin by saying “If I am bereaved, I am bereaved.”

 

It seems like Israel reluctantly accepted the fact that nothing was going well and he was about to lose the son from the woman he loved. Rachel, his wife, was barren for so many years that it seemed like she would never have children. But when she had Joseph, then Benjamin, everything seemed alright with Israel. But now Rachel was dead and so was Joseph, or so he thought. He could not see what GOD was doing.

 

Israel figured he would try to make the situation better by sending items that were locally grown and were appealing. He may have hoped that he could keep Benjamin alive by sending extra stuff. We do this too. We try to control the situation that GOD has ordained. Israel had seen enough sorrow. GOD saw everything and was planning something huge that Israel did not expect.

 

Challenge

• Why does GOD tell Moses about Israel’s response to his son’s request to take Benjamin to Egypt?
• Have you ever settled in your mind that you have to be miserable?
• Can you not settle for a miserable outcome and ask GOD to renew your faith in HIS power to make you thrive?

Something Had to be Done

Something Had to be Done

Genesis 43: ⁶ And Israel said, “Why did you deal so wrongfully with me as to tell the man whether you had still another brother?”

 

⁷ But they said, “The man asked us pointedly about ourselves and our family, saying, ‘Is your father still alive? Have you another brother?’ And we told him according to these words. Could we possibly have known that he would say, ‘Bring your brother down’?”

 

⁸ Then Judah said to Israel his father, “Send the lad with me, and we will arise and go, that we may live and not die, both we and you and also our little ones. ⁹ I myself will be surety for him; from my hand you shall require him. If I do not bring him back to you and set him before you, then let me bear the blame forever. ¹⁰ For if we had not lingered, surely by now we would have returned this second time.”

 

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When “Israel” questioned his sons about the situation they were in, the sons immediately tried to cover up what they actually said. They blamed Joseph, saying he asked questions versus telling the truth that they voluntarily spoke about Benjamin. Instead of going back and forth as to why they were in the situation, Judah spoke up.

 

My Observations:

• Israel’s sons were still trying to protect themselves.
• Israel was being resistant and waited until all the food had run out.
• Judah said in so many words “We have to do something.”

 

Shame and blame were the tactics of the sons of Israel. They seemed to be ashamed they opened their mouths about Benjamin and blamed Joseph for his reaction. Little did they know that it was Joseph who they were speaking to, so they would still be in thins situation.

 

Earlier, Reuben pledged that Jacob could kill two of his sons if Benjamin were not returned. Jacob, otherwise known as Israel, did not accept this plan. But Judah came up with another way to convince Israel. “If I do not bring him back to you and set him before you, then let me bear the blame forever” was his promise. He would become the walking shame if Benjamin died.  He gave some logic. “We could have been back by now.”

 

Challenge

• Why does GOD tell Moses about this distressful conversation between Israel and his sons?
• Have you ever wanted to avoid getting blamed for something you did or blame someone else for something you should own up to?
• Is it time to face the situation, knowing GOD is with you, so you can be brave and tell the truth?

A Lie of Protection

A Lie of Protection

Genesis 43: Now the famine was severe in the land. ² And it came to pass, when they had eaten up the grain which they had brought from Egypt, that their father said to them, “Go back, buy us a little food.”

³ But Judah spoke to him, saying, “The man solemnly warned us, saying, ‘You shall not see my face unless your brother is with you.’ ⁴ If you send our brother with us, we will go down and buy you food. ⁵ But if you will not send him, we will not go down; for the man said to us, ‘You shall not see my face unless your brother is with you.’ ”

 

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Somewhere in the middle of the seven years of famine, Jacob and his family ate up all the food that was purchased from Egypt. Jacob said “Go back and buy us a little food.” But Judah spoke up and told Jacob that they could not return to Egypt without Benjamin. But he did not tell him they could be killed.

 

My Observations:

• GOD said the famine would happen for seven years and it was difficult for everyone.
• Jacob was getting humble in his request by asking to buy a “little” food.
• Judah stretched the truth again, possibly wanting to protect Jacob from the truth that they could all be killed, according to what Joseph really said.

 

Talk about being in a bad situation! The brothers knew they needed to bring Benjamin back, but they also knew that if they told Jacob the truth, he would not let them take Benjamin. They needed to eat, so they stretched the truth.

 

They had to convince Jacob that everything would be alright with Benjamin if he traveled to Egypt. By now, Simeon had been in prison for months. Nine brothers had to carry enough food to feed all of the family, servants, herders and animals. If they came with too many people, it would look like they were trying to raid Egypt. Judah lied to protect Jacob from worry. He did not know if he would be killed or not.

 

Challenge’

• Why does GOD tell Moses about the conversation between Jacob and Judah?
• Have you ever felt you needed to stretch the truth to protect someone else’s feelings?
• Can you ask GOD for courage to practice telling the whole truth, no matter how difficult it can be?

Not Buying It

Not Buying It

Genesis 42: ³⁵ Then it happened as they emptied their sacks, that surprisingly each man’s bundle of money was in his sack; and when they and their father saw the bundles of money, they were afraid. ³⁶ And Jacob their father said to them, “You have bereaved me: Joseph is no more, Simeon is no more, and you want to take Benjamin. All these things are against me.”

 

³⁷ Then Reuben spoke to his father, saying, “Kill my two sons if I do not bring him back to you; put him in my hands, and I will bring him back to you.”

 

³⁸ But he said, “My son shall not go down with you, for his brother is dead, and he is left alone. If any calamity should befall him along the way in which you go, then you would bring down my gray hair with sorrow to the grave.”

 

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Joseph’s brothers came back from buying food with all their money in their sacks. When Jacob saw the money, he was filled with fear. The plan presented by his sons was to take Benjamin back to Egypt so Simeon could be released. Jacob refused.

 

My Observations:

• Jacob’s sons deceived him when they implied that Joseph was killed by an animal.
• Jacob’s sons had no plan to address the famine, so he had to tell them to go and buy food.
• Jacob’s sons came back with a story that sounded like they did something wrong and were trying to protect themselves from the consequence of their action.

 

It was clear to Jacob that his sons hated Joseph. He could see it in their interaction with Joseph that they had sibling rivalry. Jacob did not help the matter when he spent an enormous amount of time making a coat of many colors for Joseph. They lied about Joseph implying he was dead when they sold him into slavery. Now they were telling the truth, but Joseph wasn’t buying the story.

 

There did not seem like anything good would come out of the plan to take the remaining son of Rachel to Egypt. He refused to send Benjamin, leaving Simeon in jail or possibly he presumed him as dead. BUT GOD had this in the plan.

 

Challenge

• Why did GOD tell Moses about Jacob’s reaction to the found money and the plan to take Benjamin to Egypt?
• Have you ever tried to change and run into people who do not believe you are taking steps to a new you?
• Will you stick with the change GOD is making in you and not return to your old ways?

Softened Explanation

Softened Explanation

Genesis 42: ²⁹ Then they went to Jacob their father in the land of Canaan and told him all that had happened to them, saying: ³⁰ “The man who is lord of the land spoke roughly to us, and took us for spies of the country. ³¹ But we said to him, ‘We are honest men; we are not spies. ³² We are twelve brothers, sons of our father; one is no more, and the youngest is with our father this day in the land of Canaan.’ ³³ Then the man, the lord of the country, said to us, ‘By this I will know that you are honest men: Leave one of your brothers here with me, take food for the famine of your households, and be gone. ³⁴ And bring your youngest brother to me; so I shall know that you are not spies, but that you are honest men. I will grant your brother to you, and you may trade in the land.’ ”

 

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“This is so messed up!” was the detrimental thought that may have been running through the brothers of Joseph’s minds. The spokesperson was not mentioned, but whoever it was, attempted to soften the blow.

 

My Observations:

• Joseph’s brothers told Jacob that the lord of the land spoke roughly to them, similar to a child speaking to a parent trying to express no guilt.
• Joseph’s brothers told Jacob the truth about being accused as spies and that one brother needed to be left while they went to get
• Joseph’s brothers told Jacob that their brother Simeon would be released if Benjamin were brought to Egypt, but they added “and you may trade in the land.”

 

Telling Jacob bad news seem to be a regular thing for Joseph’s brothers. Jacob sent Joseph to see what the brother’s were doing before Joseph was sold into slavery by his brothers. He did this for a reason, possibly because they kept bringing bad news. The brothers implied to Jacob that an animal had killed Joseph. Now they had to make it seem like Simeon being in jail was no big deal.

 

One of the brothers added something that would possibly appeal to greed. He misquoted Joseph by saying “and you may trade in the land” versus what Joseph really said which is “an you shall not die.” This type of conversation would form the dysfunctional interactions of the tribes. BUT GOD would use the tribes for HIS glory later.

 

Challenge

• Why does GOD go into detail to Moses about the conversation the brothers had with Jacob?
• Have you ever had to speak to GOD or someone in authority and tried to soften the blow?
• Is GOD growing you up to be able to be honest about difficult situations?

Feared Favor

Feared Favor

Genesis 42: ²⁵ Then Joseph gave a command to fill their sacks with grain, to restore every man’s money to his sack, and to give them provisions for the journey. Thus he did for them. ²⁶ So they loaded their donkeys with the grain and departed from there. ²⁷ But as one of them opened his sack to give his donkey feed at the encampment, he saw his money; and there it was, in the mouth of his sack. ²⁸ So he said to his brothers, “My money has been restored, and there it is, in my sack!” Then their hearts failed them and they were afraid, saying to one another, “What is this that God has done to us?”

 

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GOD gave Joseph a dream that his family would one day bow to him. It was not Joseph’s desire, rather a prophecy from GOD. Joseph’s brothers wanted to kill him over jealousy, but sold him into slavery. After being thrown in a pit and prison, Joseph was made Governor of Egypt. He gave a command to a group of people to return their money, give them food and provide feed for the animals.

 

My Observations:

• Joseph showed extreme grace for his brothers who wanted to murder him.
• Joseph’s brothers had hidden guilt, but after discovering they left Egypt without paying for the food, they believed they would be labeled as thieves.
• Joseph’s brothers could not see favor, possibly because of their guilty and dishonest past.

 

Fear struck the brothers as they found their money they brough to pay for the food. They were already called “spies” by Joseph, but they did not know that it was he who had the funds returned to them. The remainder of the trip home had to be terrifying. Over and over they talked to each other saying “What is this that GOD has done to us?”

 

They may have felt that GOD was repaying them for their attempted murder and hatred of their brother. They probably could not sleep because they feared GOD would zap them at some point if they moved forward or the Egyptians would get them for stealing if they went back. There was no comfort in the favor they received.

 

Challenge

• Why does GOD tell Moses about the brother’s reaction to Joseph’s secret favor?
• Have you ever felt guilty and could not believe that you deserved favor?
• Would you believe that GOD is showing you favor even though you don’t feel that you deserve it?

Interesting Choices

Interesting Choices

Genesis 42: ¹⁸ Then Joseph said to them the third day, “Do this and live, for I fear God: ¹⁹ If you are honest men, let one of your brothers be confined to your prison house; but you, go and carry grain for the famine of your houses. ²⁰ And bring your youngest brother to me; so your words will be verified, and you shall not die.”

 

And they did so. ²¹ Then they said to one another, “We are truly guilty concerning our brother, for we saw the anguish of his soul when he pleaded with us, and we would not hear; therefore this distress has come upon us.”

 

²² And Reuben answered them, saying, “Did I not speak to you, saying, ‘Do not sin against the boy’; and you would not listen? Therefore behold, his blood is now required of us.” ²³ But they did not know that Joseph understood them, for he spoke to them through an interpreter. ²⁴ And he turned himself away from them and wept. Then he returned to them again, and talked with them. And he took Simeon from them and bound him before their eyes.

 

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Joseph told his brothers that one must stay in prison while the others take the grain home and bring Benjamin back. Not knowing it was Joseph, Reuben got angry and said “See, I told you this would happen” in so many words. They did not know Joseph could understand their discussion because he spoke to them through an interpreter.

 

My Observations:

• Simeon was chosen by Joseph possibly because Simeon had a quick temper, and he killed the Shechemite men, avenging Dinah.
• Reuben chose to not be part of the plot against Joseph and he brought this up during the distressful conversation.
• Jacob would eventually curse Simeon for his rage that he may not have gotten under control.

 

Simeon made a choice to kill the Shechemite men when is sister Dinah was assaulted. But he went several steps further by taking the Shechemite possessions. When Reuben left the scene of the crime during the plot against Joseph, Simeon was the next oldest brother and it is believed that he made the decision to dip Joseph’s coat in blood to pretend Joseph was killed by an animal.

 

Akk of the brothers spent time in prison. But Simeon would spend extra time while the brothers traveled back home and then returned with Benjamin. Joseph wept over the pretense, but got his composure back, knowing his family would one day be united.

 

Challenge

• Why does GOD tell Moses about the choice of Joseph and his brother’s argument?
• What choices have you made that are growing up to be consequential?
• Would you believe GOD is showing you grace over that bad decision and is using it for HIS good plan?

Shrewd Plan

Shrewd Plan

Genesis 42: ¹⁰ And they said to him, “No, my lord, but your servants have come to buy food. ¹¹ We are all one man’s sons; we are honest men; your servants are not spies.”

¹² But he said to them, “No, but you have come to see the nakedness of the land.”

¹³ And they said, “Your servants are twelve brothers, the sons of one man in the land of Canaan; and in fact, the youngest is with our father today, and one is no more.”

 

¹⁴ But Joseph said to them, “It is as I spoke to you, saying, ‘You are spies!’ ¹⁵ In this manner you shall be tested: By the life of Pharaoh, you shall not leave this place unless your youngest brother comes here. ¹⁶ Send one of you, and let him bring your brother; and you shall be kept in prison, that your words may be tested to see whether there is any truth in you; or else, by the life of Pharaoh, surely you are spies!” ¹⁷ So he ^[d]put them all together in prison three days.

 

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Joseph was put in an awkward position. He was surprised to see his brothers and he was being watched by the Egyptians. Joseph devised a plan to bring Benjamin to Egypt without letting either side know what he was doing.

 

My Observations:

• Joseph was not acting petty by placing them in jail for three days, rather he needed to position his brothers as spies with the Egyptians so he could pretend to interrogate them without blatantly showing favor.
• Whoever was the spokesperson for the brothers was being honest at that moment, but knew the brothers had a secret.
• Joseph did not ask them about their family, but they volunteered the information about the size and makeup of the family.

 

Being thrown in jail looks like poetic justice, but it was probably wise positioning on Joseph’s part. Why would he show a specific group of people favor that he did not show anyone else? He had to think of a plan that would give him access to his brothers in front of the Egyptians while showing them favor.

 

But sitting in jail was a consequence of their attempted murder and treachery. GOD was orchestrating a reunion that would ultimately move the Israelites into the promised land. “Three” days was used as their sentence, probably not by coincidence. This number was connected o the butler’s and the baker’s dreams. GOD may have given this number to Joseph as the symbolic time JESUS would spend being raised from the dead.

 

Challenge

• Why did GOD tell Moses about Joseph’s accusation of his brothers?
• Have you ever been placed in a difficult situation that seemed like punishment, but was really a blessing?
• Can you look at your current situation differently, knowing GOD is working it out for you to fit in HIS plan?

Remembered Dreams

 

Remembered Dreams

Genesis 42: ⁶ Now Joseph was governor over the land; and it was he who sold to all the people of the land. And Joseph’s brothers came and bowed down before him with their faces to the earth. ⁷ Joseph saw his brothers and recognized them, but he acted as a stranger to them and spoke roughly to them. Then he said to them, “Where do you come from?”

And they said, “From the land of Canaan to buy food.”

 

⁸ So Joseph recognized his brothers, but they did not recognize him. ⁹ Then Joseph remembered the dreams which he had dreamed about them, and said to them, “You are spies! You have come to see the nakedness of the land!”

 

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Joseph’s brothers came to Egypt to buy food. They were sent to Joseph who they had not seen in thirteen years or so. He was dressed as an Egyptian so they did not recognize him. They bowed down to him. When Joseph saw his brother and saw them bowing down to him, he remembered the dream GOD gave him.

 

My Observations:

• Joseph did not know how the dream would play out when GOD gave it to him.
• Joseph treated his brothers harshly, knowing the answer to the questions he asked.
• Joseph may have had many mixed feelings about seeing the brothers who sold him into slavery versus GOD being with him, teaching him grace.

 

Joseph recognized his brothers, but they did not recognize him. This gave Joseph an advantage that he never would have dreamt of. The brothers were forced to bow down to Joseph. They never would have done this on their own because of the hatred they harbored in their heart. BUT GOD knew this when HE gave Joseph the dream.

 

GOD gave Joseph a prophetic dream that came to fruition after HE created a famine that would make the brothers do anything to survive. This sometimes happens to you and me. Things, people and places are taken away from us, forcing us to rid ourselves of pride, fear and self-doubt. Joseph’s faith increased exponentially when seeing the dream come true/.

 

Challenge

• Why does GOD tell Moses about Joseph’s “rough” handling of his brothers during their reunion?
• Has GOD caused a famine around you that is so great, that you have to change?
• Is GOD guiding you to let go of something you are holding onto by placing you in an uncomfortable circumstance?

Protective

Protective

Genesis 42: ³ So Joseph’s ten brothers went down to buy grain in Egypt. ⁴ But Jacob did not send Joseph’s brother Benjamin with his brothers, for he said, “Lest some calamity befall him.” ⁵ And the sons of Israel went to buy grain among those who journeyed, for the famine was in the land of Canaan.

 

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Ten of Joseph’s half-brothers were sent to Egypt to buy grain. But “Jacob” did not send Benjamin with his half-brothers. So the sons of “Israel” went to buy grain.

 

My Observations:

• Jacob may have suspected his sons were not telling him the truth about what happened to Joseph.
• Rachel was the woman Jacob loved, so he treated Joseph and Benjamin, her sons, differently.
• Jacob sent ten of his sons to buy enough food that each could carry.

 

Jacob had hundreds of servants who tended his animals, so they would need to be fed as well. But Jacob sent only his sons to Egypt. He clearly showed a difference between Benjamin and his other sons by saying “Lest some calamity befall him.”  Jacob may have seen something in his sons that he could not quite put his finger on. All he knew in his mind was Joseph was dead.

 

The sons of “Israel” went to Egypt. I believe this distinction was given to Moses on purpose. As Moses writes this book, he flows between Jacob and Israel. I believe GOD is showing how the tribes of Israel ended up in Egypt. The importance of the tribes would become known later. GOD chose a very complex family.

 

Challenge

• Why did GOD tell Moses about Jacob’s protective statement to his other sons about Benjamin?
• Has something ever happened in your life that made you more protective of people around you?
• Is GOD moving you to a place where HIS new work will begin?

Do Something!

Do Something!

Genesis 42: When Jacob saw that there was grain in Egypt, Jacob said to his sons, “Why do you look at one another?” ² And he said, “Indeed I have heard that there is grain in Egypt; go down to that place and buy for us there, that we may live and not die.”

 

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GOD made the famine so severe, that there was no place to go to get food. Jacob heard there was food in Egypt. He told his sons to do something!

 

My Observations:

• Jacob’s sons were willing to perish because they had no vision.
• Jacob had to step in and tell his sons to do something!
• Jacob saw that his sons did not have vision and they would perish.

 

GOD turned HIS attention to Jacob and his sons as they faced the seven years of famine. Jacob was a survivor and would not let his family just tit and die. His sons had plotted against Joseph and wound up selling him into slavery. But their plan only went as far as the harm they caused. They did not know where to turn.

 

GOD may have had many reasons for causing the famine, but the one that is revealed is the famine forced the sons of Israel to go to Joseph, just as the dream of Joseph said. This difficult time was being used by GOD to bring HIS people to Egypt.

 

Challenge

• Why do you think GOD told Moses about Jacob’s statement to his sons?
• Have you ever felt hopeless?
• Do you realize GOD’s plan is greater than your circumstance and HE will move you to where HE needs you someday?

Deliverer

Deliverer

Genesis 41: ⁵³ Then the seven years of plenty which were in the land of Egypt ended, ⁵⁴ and the seven years of famine began to come, as Joseph had said. The famine was in all lands, but in all the land of Egypt there was bread. ⁵⁵ So when all the land of Egypt was famished, the people cried to Pharaoh for bread. Then Pharaoh said to all the Egyptians, “Go to Joseph; whatever he says to you, do.” ⁵⁶ The famine was over all the face of the earth, and Joseph opened all the storehouses and sold to the Egyptians. And the famine became severe in the land of Egypt. ⁵⁷ So all countries came to Joseph in Egypt to buy grain, because the famine was severe in all lands.

 

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After the seven years of plenty ended, seven years of famine began, just as Joseph prophesied. First the Egyptians came to Pharaoh, asking him to fix their problem. But he sent them to “Joseph.”

 

My Observations:

• GOD gave Joseph the interpretation of the dream HE gave Pharaoh.
• Joseph used his gift of administration to store up food all over the providence of Egypt.
• Pharaoh called Joseph “Joseph” versus using the name he gave him.

 

Maybe it was a good guess that the land would provide abundance, Pharaoh may have thought. If  abundance happened for eight or nine or ten years, Pharaoh would still look good. But it happened just as Joseph predicted. How can this be, Pharaoh may hove thought. Then he realized, GOD was speaking through Joseph.

 

Pharaoh sent everyone who asked to Joseph. Even Pharaoh recognized this was no coincidence. GOD positioned Joseph to deliver the Egyptians and all the countries from the famine. GOD provided the abundance and positioned Joseph as HIS deliverer.

 

Challenge

• Why does GOD tell Moses about Pharaoh’s reaction to the cries of the people regarding the seven years of famine?
• Are you going through a difficult time?
• Is GOD positioning you to be HIS deliverer by using the gifts HE has given you?

Significant Revival

 

Significant Revival

Genesis 41: ⁵⁰ And to Joseph were born two sons before the years of famine came, whom Asenath, the daughter of Poti-Pherah priest of On, bore to him. ⁵¹ Joseph called the name of the firstborn Manasseh: “For God has made me forget all my toil and all my father’s house.” ⁵² And the name of the second he called Ephraim: “For God has caused me to be fruitful in the land of my affliction.”

 

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Sometime during the years of plenty, Joseph had two sons Manasseh and Ephriam. Asenath, an Egyptian daughter of a priest who worshipped Ra the sun god, is mentioned for the second time.

 

My Observations:

• Asenath influenced her sons to live as Egyptians.
• Manasseh would later struggle with GOD
• Ephriam would become a huge tribe, yet would also struggle with GOD.

 

The birth of these two sons was so significant to GOD, that one of the tribes, Dan, was replaced in the book of Revelation with Manasseh. My guess is Manasseh was born somewhere around year three of the famine and Ephriam was born around year five. I have no factual basis for the numbers other than Joseph was extremely busy storing up food for Egypt.

 

Joseph struggled with being separated from his father. He may have thought of Jacob every day. Joseph may have learned how to manage people from Jacob. Naming Manasseh “Making me forget my sorrow” indicates He missed his father. Naming Ephriam “Double fruitfulness” was done after collecting so much food that the amount could not be counted.

 

Joseph recognized that he was in a land that afflicted him. He had been taken from his father, enslaved  and imprisoned. This land started off as a place of doom. BUT GOD healed the situation and made Joseph fruitful in all he did.

 

Challenge

• Why does GOD tell Moses about the birth of Joseph’s son in such detail?
• Have you ever come out of a trial and remembered what you went through?
• Does GOD’s revival of you have to come in the way you think?