Here we have an account of a family with challenges; a most favored son, jealous brothers, arrogance, bitterness, and we can see disasterous results. We have the favorite son, in compliance with dad's request going an extra mile to comply with that request to find out how things are going with the flock. Upon Joseph's contact with his brothers, we read that the brothers plot to kill and ultimately sell Joseph into slavery. These brothers also bring the story of an animal killing Joseph to dad, Israel, bringing him much greif.
We then read of Judah's deplorable actions which provide us with compelling reasons for Israel's children to leave and ultimately reside in Egypt.
We go on to read of Joseph's increasing responsibilities in Egypt in Pothaphar's home. Responibilities which are removed upon the action of Potaphar's wife.
Thoughts:
How do you treat members of your family? Do you show favoritism, carry a grudge?
Considering Judah's actions with Tamar, do you see actions in today's society that make you want to move, to tell the story?
Consider how would you have handled the situation of Joseph and temptation by Potiphar's wife? By God's grace would you have resisted, spoken up to Potiphar, left? What do you do now when tempted?
Pray for the Spirit to strengthen you when tempted and to give you a way out
No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it.
1 Cor 10:13 NIV
In Christ
David P
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