Goshen was the fertile delta country of Egypt where the Nile River fanned out to enter the Mediterranean Sea. When Israel arrived in Egypt, he rejoiced over seeing his son, Joseph, that he assumed was dead. He felt as if he could now die in peace. Goshen was far enough from Pharaoh's palace that they … Continue reading Land of Goshen(Genesis 46:28-47:12)
My Big Fat Egyptian Reunion (Genesis 45:1 – 46:27)
Joseph kept up the ruse as long as he could, and could contain his emotions no longer. He told all the Egyptians to leave the room, and he revealed to his brothers that he was Joseph. They were astonished and could not respond for a while. He basically forgave them for their evil done to … Continue reading My Big Fat Egyptian Reunion (Genesis 45:1 – 46:27)
Judah’s Love (Genesis 44:18-34)
In this passage, Judah intercedes for his little brother Benjamin. Joseph and Benjamin were the only sons of Israel's beloved wife, Rachel. With Joseph presumed dead by Israel, and sold into slavery by his brothers, Benjamin is the only son left of his marriage to his beloved--at least as far as Israel knows. Joseph so … Continue reading Judah’s Love (Genesis 44:18-34)
One More Time (Genesis 43:1 – 44:17)
The sons of Israel ate the food they had bought in Egypt. Israel asked them to go back to buy more grain, but they protested. Simeon was already held captive in Egypt, and they knew that if they returned to Pharoah's servant for more food without Benjamin, that he would not help them. So they … Continue reading One More Time (Genesis 43:1 – 44:17)
Reunited (Genesis 42)
Quick note from Editor: The Devoted to You Blog will now appear on weekdays (Monday through Friday). Thanks to all who follow the blog. I hope it has been a blessing in some way to you! Joseph has been sent ahead by the providence of God to Egypt in order to make provision for all … Continue reading Reunited (Genesis 42)
The Dream Unfolds (Genesis 41)
Joseph has served faithfully, and has seen no permanent favor in his life. However, Pharoah's butler remembers Joseph in a moment of need. Pharoah has an unusual dream, and needs to find an interpreter. The butler suggests he call on Joseph. Pharoah then related his dreams to Joseph, of seven scrawny cows eating 7 healthy … Continue reading The Dream Unfolds (Genesis 41)
The Butler, the Baker, and the Dream Maker (Genesis 39-40)
Joseph can't seem to catch a break. His brothers sell him to Midianite (Ishamaelite) traders. The Midianites sell him to Potiphar in Egypt. He rises to a place of authority in Potiphar's house, only to have her wife make a play for him, and then falsely accuse him when he spurned her love. Then Potiphar … Continue reading The Butler, the Baker, and the Dream Maker (Genesis 39-40)
The Dream Delayed & Vigilante Justice of a Different Kind (Genesis 37:12-38:30)
The story of Joseph's sale into slavery is quite dramatic. His brother's saw him coming and decided to capture him and get rid of him so that he would no longer anger them. They threw him in a bit, and then sold him to Midianite traders for 20 pieces of silver. They dipped his coat … Continue reading The Dream Delayed & Vigilante Justice of a Different Kind (Genesis 37:12-38:30)
Enter the Dreamer (Genesis 37:1-11)
Another transition occurs, this time abruptly, announcing the entrance of Joseph onto the scene of the patriarchal story. A 17-year-old young man bursts into his family's psyche as the favored son of all the 12 sons of Israel. Jacob (Israel) had Joseph a special coat made of many colors, and his brothers knew of Israel's … Continue reading Enter the Dreamer (Genesis 37:1-11)
The Father of the Edomites (Genesis 36:31-43)
This may seem a bit redundant, but here is one further testament of Esau's blessings and his place in history. Esau was the son of Isaac, the son of Rebekah, and one of the heirs of Abraham. His heirs and his powerful influence demonstrate his favor in the eyes of God. Associate with Godly people … Continue reading The Father of the Edomites (Genesis 36:31-43)