God’s Strengthening Word: Mercy & ForgivenessSample

Introduction

Genesis 46:28—47:12: Joseph is reunited with his father. Joseph uses his knowledge of Egypt to help his family find a good place to live, and Jacob and his family settle in Egypt in the region of Goshen, the northeastern part of Egypt in the Nile Delta.

Today’s Key Verse: Genesis 46:29b GNT

When they met, Joseph threw his arms around his father’s neck and cried for a long time.

Reflect

How do you envision the reunion between Joseph and his father? Have you ever experienced a reunion with a loved one after a long separation? If so, what do you recall of your feelings at the time? Reread 46:31–34. Egyptians thought that the wandering sheepherders from the east were inferior and did not like to mix with them. Joseph wanted the king to know that his brother were shepherds so that the king would give them their own area of land (Goshen) apart from Egypt’s main population. What did Joseph instruct his brothers to say to the king when questioned about their occupation (46:33–34)?

Pray

Gracious God, as you watch over me each day, I sense your loving arms enfolding me. May I continue to grow in knowledge of you, trusting that you are guiding me in the way of your truth. Amen.

Tomorrow’s Reading

Genesis 47:13–31: The famine becomes more severe.