Genesis 41:17-42:17, Matthew 13:24-46, Psalm 18:1-15, Proverbs 4:1-6
Pray: Joseph interprets Pharaoh’s dream through the Holy Spirit. Joseph gives God the credit. When you and I begin to read this powerful text perhaps we should ask God to give us the capacity to interpret, and understand how God’s redemptive story of Joseph, Egypt and the people of Israel intersects our lives.
Read: Joseph does hold his brothers accountable, but he does not move into a state of judgment nor does he give them any harsh penalty for selling him into slavery years ago. He only puts them in prison for three days. They deserved much more, but when it comes to justice we all deserve much more. In fact, I often hear people say, “I want justice!” Really? You want justice for others, but you would never want justice for yourself. Justice is for you and me being eternally separated from a Holy God due to our sinful nature. Yet, God is so merciful and gracious.
Edify: Jesus speaks to us in Matthew about the wheat and weeds. We have to be careful in our lives to weed our spiritual and emotional gardens regularly. Sin has a way of showing up and growing even within the decent areas of our lives. We have to first recognize them, then pull the weeds regularly or they will take over our lives if they are not identified and thrown out through repentance and confession.
Practice: Today we see Joseph showing compassion towards his brothers as he has been elevated to a tremendous position of power. Joseph now becomes second in command of all of Egypt. Yet, he is willing to show compassion. Who needs your unconditional love today? Why not ask God for a double portion of grace today so you might give it away to others.
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