Scripture to Read: Genesis 45:16-28
Yesterday we saw the beautiful portrait of reconciliation as Joseph and his brothers were reunited. A relationship once broken had now been restored. In today's devotion, we see a portrait of life as Joseph, once thought dead by his father, Israel, is found to be alive. After Joseph's reunion with his brothers, Pharaoh offers Joseph and his family the best of the land of Egypt (Genesis 45:17-20). Joseph also gave them wagons because of Pharaoh's command and the provisions they needed for their journey. Joseph also sent a ton of supplies for his father, Israel. As Joseph's brothers left, he said to them, "Do not quarrel on the way" (Genesis 45:23-24). Once the brothers arrived home, they were able to give Israel some shocking news, "Joseph is still alive, and he is ruler over all the land of Egypt" (Genesis 45:26). As expected, Jacob was slow to believe them. But, when Jacob saw the wagons Joseph had sent, his spirit was revived. In Genesis 45:28, Jacob said, "It is enough; Joseph my son is still alive. I will go and see him before I die." A child Jacob once thought was dead is alive! As we read God's Word, this should produce hope in our hearts. For relationships that seem broken, our Lord can heal. For the pain of loss, our Lord provides comfort. For those who are lost, we can point them to our Lord Jesus Christ for hope. He is the one who brings the dead to life because He is the crucified Savior who is our Risen King.
Challenge & Application
1. How does God remind us there is hope to be found, even in what feels like the losses of our lives?
2. Who can you be praying to God for that He would make them alive in Jesus Christ?
Don’t forget to pray using the A.C.T.S. (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication) method!