HAPPY MONDAY TO YOU! LET'S STUDY GENESIS 39 (Jacob's Son--> Joseph plight & prosperity)
Luwena
Hello Young People,
Hope you have a great great weekend, hot weather, so please drink lots of water J
Let us continue to study God’s holy word in Genesis Chapter 39
Latest info, Our website has biblical comics too, check it out www.whycannot.com and post your comments on anything you like J
May God’s word be of great blessing to you today!
GENESIS CHAPTER 39 (Jacob’s Son---> Joseph plight & Prosperity)
Meanwhile, Joseph with his captors was on the way to Egypt. As the caravan journeyed southward toward the borders of Canaan, the boy could discern in the distance the hills among which lay his father's tents. Bitterly he wept at thought of that loving father in his loneliness and affliction. Again the scene at Dothan came up before him. He saw his angry brothers and felt their fierce glances bent upon him. The stinging, insulting words that had met his agonized entreaties were ringing in his ears. With a trembling heart he looked forward to the future. What a change in situation--from the tenderly cherished son to the despised and helpless slave! Alone and friendless, what would be his lot in the strange land to which he was going? For a time Joseph gave himself up to uncontrolled grief and terror. {PP 213.1} (He must be very terified from a life of a prince at home to be sold as a slave in a foreign land, same feelings as us if our future is uncertain)
But, in the providence of God, even this experience was to be a blessing to him. He had learned in a few hours that which years might not otherwise have taught him. His father, strong and tender as his love had been, had done him wrong by his partiality and indulgence. This unwise preference had angered his brothers and provoked them to the cruel deed that had separated him from his home. Its effects were manifest also in his own character. Faults had been encouraged that were now to be corrected. He was becoming self-sufficient and exacting. Accustomed to the tenderness of his father's care, he felt that he was unprepared to cope with the difficulties before him, in the bitter, uncared-for life of a stranger and a slave. {PP 213.2}
Then his thoughts turned to his father's God. In his childhood he had been taught to love and fear Him. Often in his father's tent he had listened to the story of the vision that Jacob saw as he fled from his home an exile and a fugitive. He had been told of the Lord's promises to Jacob, and how they had been fulfilled--how, in the hour of need, the angels of God had come to instruct, comfort, and protect him. And he had learned of the love of God in providing for men a Redeemer. Now all these precious lessons came vividly before him. Joseph believed that the God of his fathers would be his God. He then and there gave himself fully to the Lord, and he prayed that the Keeper of Israel would be with him in the land of his exile. {PP 213.3}
(“Fear God” in the bible does not literally mean fear, it means to respect God and know that he is our creator and saviour, just like respect for parents)(From Joseph’s experiences, he has been taught about God since 0 years old. It is parents’ duties to educate their children and tell them about the stories in the bible how God delivered all our ancestors and this is great assurance to the growth of the kid that God will never leave nor forsake them in all situations)
His soul thrilled with the high resolve to prove himself true to God--under all circumstances to act as became a subject of the King of heaven. He would serve the Lord with undivided heart; he would meet the trials of his lot with fortitude and perform every duty with fidelity. One day's experience had been the turning point in Joseph's life. Its terrible calamity had transformed him from a petted child to a man, thoughtful, courageous, and self-possessed. {PP 214.1}
Joseph had been taken to Egypt by the Ishmaelites, Potiphar an Egyptian, one of Pharaoh's officials and the manager of his household, bought him from them. The LORD was with Joseph, so he became a successful man while working in the house of his Egyptian master.
Joseph's master saw that the LORD was with him and that the LORD made everything he did successful. Potiphar liked him so much he put him in charge of everything he owned. Because of Joseph, God blessed Potiphar's household, extending to all he owned at home and in the fields.
The marked prosperity which attended everything placed under Joseph's care was not the result of a direct miracle; but his industry, care, and energy were crowned with the divine blessing. Joseph attributed his success to the favor of God, and even his idolatrous master accepted this as the secret of his unparalleled prosperity. Without steadfast, well-directed effort, however, success could never have been attained. God was glorified by the faithfulness of His servant. It was His purpose that in purity and uprightness the believer in God should appear in marked contrast to the worshipers of idols--that thus the light of heavenly grace might shine forth amid the darkness of heathenism. {PP 214.4}
Joseph was well-built and handsome, and after some time Potiphar's wife got infatuated with Joseph and asked him to sleep with her. But Joseph refused and pointed to Potiphar's trust in him and that it would be a sin against God. She kept asking Joseph day after day, but he refused go to bed with her or be with her. (What an adulterous woman in such olden times, maybe more bold than our modern society!)
Joseph's answer reveals the power of religious principle. He would not betray the confidence of his master on earth, and, whatever the consequences, he would be true to his Master in heaven. Under the inspecting eye of God and holy angels many take liberties of which they would not be guilty in the presence of their fellow men, but Joseph's first thought was of God. "How . . . can I do this great wickedness, and sin against God?" he said. {PP 217.3}
If we were to cherish an habitual impression that God sees and hears all that we do and say and keeps a faithful record of our words and actions, and that we must meet it all, we would fear to sin. Let the young ever remember that wherever they are, and whatever they do, they are in the presence of God. No part of our conduct escapes observation. We cannot hide our ways from the Most High. Human laws, though sometimes severe, are often transgressed without detection, and hence with impunity. But not so with the law of God. The deepest midnight is no cover for the guilty one. He may think himself alone, but to every deed there is an unseen witness. The very motives of his heart are open to divine inspection. Every act, every word, every thought, is as distinctly marked as though there were only one person in the whole world, and the attention of heaven were centered upon him. {PP 217.4} (God knows our every action, thought and heart. We may fool or hide from the world doing evil deeds, but the Lord knows)
One day, when Joseph went into the house to do his work, none of the household servants were there. Then she grabbed him by his cloak, saying, "Sleep with me!" He left his coat in her hand and ran out of the house.
Realising that he had left his coat in her hand and run outside, she called her household servants and said to them, "Look! My husband brought this Hebrew here to laugh at us. He came in and tried to go to bed with me, but I screamed as loud as I could, and he ran outside and left his clothes with me." (The evil adulteress accused Joseph and brought injustice to him)
She kept the cloak and told Potiphar the same lie when he came back. Furious, he arrested Joseph and put him in the same prison where the king's prisoners were kept. While Joseph was in prison, the LORD was with him, reaching out to him with his unchanging love and giving him protection. God also put Joseph on good terms with the warden, so that Joseph was put in charge of all the prisoners who were in that prison and became responsible for everything that they were doing. (God never forsake Joseph in good or bad times!)
Because the LORD was with Joseph in whatever he did, making him successful, the warden paid no attention to anything under Joseph's care.
Food for thought: The story of Joseph is a great encouragement to us that even in such times of uncertainty & difficulty we may face, God will never forsake nor leave us. He will provide a way and providence. May the Lord be with you today
Devotion summarise & presented by Matthew Chua (Brother in Christ)
Bible comics on Website contributed by Cherylin aka Caili (Sister in Christ)
Best regards,
Luwena Wong
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Luwena
Hello Young People,
This coming Saturday 28 Feb at 3pm there will be a Combine young people event at Botanic Gardens held by Mission. Its gonna to be fun, spiritual and exciting!
There will be a bus chartered from our Dunman church at 2:15pm to bring us to Botanic Gardens. These are the names Ive gathered so far going, if I miss your name please email me asap so that you will not be left out from the bus!
1) Daniel Chua
2) Vincenz
3) Vieny
4) Shaun
5) Ivan
6) Cherylin
7) Timothy
8) Matthew Chua
9) Natasha
10) Iris
11) Robert
12) Rudy
13) Audrey
14) Ben
15) Nancy
16) Raissa
17) Derian
18) Andrea
19) Brigitta
20) Sondang
Luwena
Hello Young People,
Kick away the Monday blues, we are 4 days ahead of the weekends J
Let us continue to study God’s holy word in Genesis Chapter 40
Latest info, Our website has biblical comics too, check it out www.whycannot.com and post your comments on anything you like J
May God’s word be of great blessing to you today!
GENESIS CHAPTER 39 (Jacob’s Son---> Joseph plight & Prosperity)
As time went on, it happened that the cupbearer and the baker of the king of Egypt angered Pharaoh, their master. He put them in the prison of the captain of the guard, the same place where Joseph was a prisoner. (Pharoah means King of Egypt, then they have many servants to attend to them such as drinks, food etc)
The captain of the guard assigned them to Joseph, and he took care of them. After they had been confined for some time, the cupbearer and baker had dreams one night; each with its own special meaning.
When Joseph came to them in the morning, he saw that they were upset. He asked them why, and they told him that they both had dreams but no one could tell them the meanings. Joseph asked them to tell him their dreams.
Cupbearer: A grapevine with three branches appeared. It budded, blossomed, and the clusters ripened into grapes. Pharaoh's cup was in his hand, so he took the grapes and squeezed them into it. He then put the cup in Pharaoh's hand.
Meaning: In the next three days Pharaoh will release him and restore himto his position. He will put Pharaoh's cup in his hand as he used to do when he was his cupbearer.
Joseph told the cupbearer to remember him and that he was in Egypt because he was kidnapped, as well as being thrown in jail while innocent. The chief baker saw that the meaning Joseph had given to the cupbearer's dream was good, so he told his dream. (Joseph hoped that the cupbearer will remember him when he was to be reinstored in position by the Pharoah, Joseph hoped to be released out of prison)
Baker: There were three wicker baskets on his head. The top basket contained all kinds of baked goods for Pharaoh, but the birds were eating them out of the basket on his head.
Meaning: In the next three days Pharaoh will cut off his head and hang his dead body on a pole. The birds will eat the flesh from his bones. (The Baker must be very terrified when he heard the meaning of his dream from Joseph)
On the third day, which was Pharaoh's birthday, he made a feast for all his servants and he gave special attention to the chief cupbearer and the chief baker. He restored the chief cupbearer to his position, who placed the cup in Pharaoh's hand. But he hung the chief baker just as Joseph had said in his interpretation.
But the head cupbearer forgot all about Joseph (ungrateful).
The king's cupbearer had professed the deepest gratitude to Joseph, both for the cheering interpretation of his dream and for many acts of kind attention; and in return the latter, referring in a most touching manner to his own unjust captivity, entreated that his case be brought before the king. "Think on me," he said, "when it shall be well with thee, and show kindness, I pray thee, unto me, and make mention of me unto Pharaoh, and bring me out of this house: for indeed I was stolen away out of the land of the Hebrews: and here also have I done nothing that they should put me into the dungeon." The chief butler saw the dream fulfilled in every particular; but when restored to royal favor, he thought no more of his benefactor. For two years longer Joseph remained a prisoner. The hope that had been kindled in his heart gradually died out, and to all other trials was added the bitter sting of ingratitude. {PP 219.2} (So the 1million $$ question: Will Joseph stay in prison forever?)
Food for thought: Cant really imagine why the cupbearer could forget all about Joseph when he was released and re-instored in position by the Pharoah. May we learn to be grateful to our family members, friends etc who have assist us in any ealier times b4.
Luwena
Hello Young People,
Come by to church this evening at 8pm to pray together, you can have any prayer request! Address: 730 Dunman Road
Let us continue to study God’s holy word in Genesis Chapter 41
Latest info, Our website has biblical comics too, check it out www.whycannot.com and post your comments on anything you like J
May God’s word be of great blessing to you today!
GENESIS CHAPTER 41 (Jacob’s Son---> Joseph became the Prime Minister of Egypt!)
Two years passed and Pharaoh had a dream that he was standing by the Nile River. Seven nice-looking, well-fed cows came up from the river and began to graze (eat) among the reeds.
Seven other cows that were sickly and skinny came up from the river behind them. They stood behind the first seven cows on the riverbank. The skinny cows ate the seven healthy cows. Then Pharaoh woke up.
He fell asleep again and had a second dream. Seven good, healthy heads of grain were growing on a single stalk. Seven other heads of grain, thin and scorched by the east wind, sprouted behind them. (The 2nd dream and the 1st dream meant the same thing, both are sent by God)
The thin ears swallowed up the full, healthy ears. Then Pharaoh woke up. In the morning he was so upset that he sent for all the magicians and wise men of Egypt. Pharaoh told them his dreams, but no one could tell him what they meant. (In Egypt, the magicians and soccerers work for the King Pharoah, they do not know about God of heaven)
Then the chief cupbearer said to Pharaoh, "I remember my offenses today. When Pharaoh was angry with his servants and put me and the chief baker in custody in the house of the captain of the guard, we dreamed on the same night, he and I, each having a dream with its own interpretation. A young Hebrew, a slave of the captain of the guard, was with us. We told him our dreams, and he told each of us what they meant. Everything he said came true. (The Cupbearer remembered Joseph in prison finally!!)
Then Pharaoh sent for Joseph, and immediately he was brought from the prison. After he had shaved and changed his clothes, he came in front of Pharaoh. Pharaoh told Joseph his 2 dreams and Joseph interpreted it, pointing to God as the one who has the answers. (Joseph never claim credit but indicate that God has the answers to Pharoah’s dream)
It was humiliating to Pharaoh to turn away from the magicians and wise men of his kingdom to consult an alien and a slave, but he was ready to accept the lowliest service if his troubled mind might find relief. Joseph was immediately sent for; he put off his prison attire, and shaved himself, for his hair had grown long during the period of his disgrace and confinement. He was then conducted to the presence of the king. {PP 220.1}
Meaning of Pharaoh’s dream: 7 years of plenty of good food, followed by 7 years of famine.
The reason Pharaoh had a recurring dream was because the matter had been definitely decided by God, who did it very soon. Joseph advised Pharaoh to select a discerning and wise man, and set him over the land of Egypt. This man would make arrangements to appoint supervisors over the land to take a fifth of Egypt's harvest during the seven good years. This would be the reserve food.
Pharaoh and all his servants liked the idea. He recognised that no one else would have God's Spirit in him like with Joseph, so he put Joseph in charge. Joseph got the signet ring and he became the 2nd most powerful man in Egypt. (Joseph was the prime minister of Egypt to give advice to the King Pharaoh)
Men Recognize a Living Connection With God.--He who receives Christ by living faith has a living connection with God, and is a vessel unto honor. He carries with him the atmosphere of heaven, which is the grace of God, a treasure that the world cannot buy. He who is in living connection with God may be in humble stations, yet his moral worth is as precious as was that of Joseph and Daniel, who were recognized by heathen kings as men with whom was the Spirit of God (MS 54, 1894). {1BC 1097.7}
Pharaoh put Joseph in fine clothes and had a parade to show off the Pharaoh's decision. Pharaoh named Joseph Zaphenathpaneah and gave him Asenath, the daughter of Potiphera priest of On, as his wife. Joseph was thirty years old when he entered the service of Pharaoh king of Egypt. ( A young age to be such a powerful man)
Joseph stored the food during the 7 years and it was a HUGE amount. Before the famine came, Joseph had two sons by Asenath. His firstborn son was named Manasseh [He Helps Me Forget], because God helped him forget all his troubles and all about his father's family. He named the second son Ephraim [Blessed Twice With Children], because God gave him children in the land where he had suffered.
The famine came and everywhere people felt the effects of it. Pharaoh told the Egyptians to do what Joseph tells them to do. The whole world came to Joseph in Egypt to buy grain, since the famine was so severe all over the world.
Food for thought: God will never forget his faithful servants, there will be more characters in the bible we will study soon. You will be more aware of God’s character and his love for mankind!
Luwena
Hello Young People,
Let us continue to study God’s holy word in Genesis Chapter 42
Latest info, Our website has biblical comics too, check it out www.whycannot.com and post your comments on anything you like J
May God’s word be of great blessing to you today!
GENESIS CHAPTER 42 (Jacob’s Son---> Joseph Prime Minister meeting with his brothers)
When Jacob heard that Egypt had food, he told his sons to go get some. 10 of them went, with Benjamin staying behind because Jacob was scared something bad might happen to him. (Benjamin is the younger brother of Joseph born of Rachel, Jacob’s favourite wife)
Joseph was in charge of Egypt and got to see his brothers bow before him. Joseph recognised them but they didn't. After talking about the brothers' situation, Joseph insisted they were spies and they kept saying they weren't.
He gave them a test, that they won't get t o leave until the younger brother goes as well. One would fetch Benjamin while the others waited in jail. The brothers were later thrown in jail for 3 days. Joseph changed the terms to 1 stays, 9 go back. (Joseph wants his brothers to fetch Benjamin his blood brother but would not reveal his identity)
The brothers discussed that all that bad stuff was happening because of what they did to Joseph. Joseph had been using an interpreter so they didn't know he understood what they said. Joseph cried with his back turned and turned back once he finished.
(Joseph doesn’t want his brother to recognise him so he wouldn’t speak hebrew but instead speak egyptian and use an interpreter to speak to his brothers. The brothers were discussing such plight fall on them because they have done evil before to their brother Joseph, they felt it was retribution. Still they couldn’t recognise Joseph the prime minister was their brother)
Simeon got picked as the one to stay. Joseph ordered that their sacks be filled with grain, that their money be put back in each sack, and that they be given rations for the road.
After travelling a while, one of them noticed the money got put back. They freaked out and they argued about what was going to happen and what to do. When they reported back to Jacob, he was so upset he refused to let Benjamin go. Even though Reuben promised 2 of his sons could be killed if he didn't bring Ben back alive.
The famine extended to the land of Canaan and was severely felt in that part of the country where Jacob dwelt. Hearing of the abundant provision made by the king of Egypt, ten of Jacob's sons journeyed thither to purchase grain. On their arrival they were directed to the king's deputy, and with other applicants they came to present themselves before the ruler of the land. And they "bowed down themselves before him with their faces to the earth." "Joseph knew his brethren, but they knew not him." His Hebrew name had been exchanged for the one bestowed upon him by the king, and there was little resemblance between the prime minister of Egypt and the stripling whom they had sold to the Ishmaelites. As Joseph saw his brothers stooping and making obeisance, his dreams came to his mind, and the scenes of the past rose vividly before him. His keen eye, surveying the group, discovered that Benjamin was not among them. Had he also fallen a victim to the treacherous cruelty of those savage men? He determined to learn the truth. "Ye are spies," he said sternly; "to see the nakedness of the land ye are come." {PP 224.3}
(Joseph’s dreams when he was young were all fulfilled because his brother bow down at him when they visit Joseph the prime minister of Egypt)
(Question: Will Joseph take revenge on his brothers??)
Food for thought: In such present times, God still send dreams to his children and some of us may have such experiences. May we have more dreams from God and life will be great, greater and greatest each day! J
Luwena
Dear Brother & Sister in Christ,
Good
News !!!
There is a batch of new books which include Health, Cooking & Vegetarian (from Revelation Pte Ltd) . We also have spiritual books written by inspired writers. You can click onto the below link to view the Books & CDs inventory :
http://www.mymaranatha.com/resources/maranathabookstore
There are 3 files for you to choose from :
1) SDA Books Inventory A for Maranatha
2) SDA Books Inventory B for Maranatha
3) SDA CD Inventory for Maranatha
There is a provision for you to place an order on the 3 files. Please indicate the quantity and attached the files to your email and send them to :
I will personally deliver the ordered items to you in church.. Please place your payment in an envelope and pass it to me.
"Dear friend, I pray that you may enjoy good health and that all may go well with you, even as your soul is getting along well." 3 John 2 (NIV)
God bless,
Teng Hock
26th Feb 2009
Luwena
Hello Young People,
Hope you have great spiritual fun in Botanic Gardens on last Sat J. Thanks to Chaixi for all the arrangements made and we greatly enjoyed it J
Let us continue to study God’s holy word in Genesis Chapter 43
Latest info, Our website has biblical comics too, check it out www.whycannot.com and post your comments on anything you like J
May God’s word be of great blessing to you today!
GENESIS CHAPTER 43 (Joseph’s meeting with his evil brothers)
It was some time since Joseph’s brothers reported to their father what the lord of the land (Joseph) said about imprisoning one of them until Benjamin gets brought before him. (Joseph threatened the brothers to bring Benjamin his brother to him as he missed him very much)
The famine was still severe and when the grain was all gone, Jacob told his sons to go back to Egypt for more food. However, Judah reminded him of the man’s (Joseph) warning that they must not show up again without Benjamin.
Jacob/Israel asked them why they brought trouble to him by telling the man they had another brother. They replied that they answered the man’s questions honestly and had no idea it would turn out that way.
Judah asked Israel to send Ben with them for the sake of the whole family. He would personally be accountable for anything that might happen to Ben.
Jacob/Israel gave the ok, but also told them to bring along some of the best products of the land in their bags as gifts to the man (Joseph). In addition to that, they were to pack double the silver in payment for both last time and this time.
The brothers left and when Joseph saw Benjamin with them, he told the steward to bring them to his house, as well as prepare a meal, to eat with him at noon.
The brothers were scared and they thought that they were going to be attacked and seized as slaves and take their donkeys because of the missing silver previously. They told the steward that they brought the silver owed from last time and more for the current request of food.
The steward told them that God gave the treasure and that he got their silver from last time. Then he brought Simeon out to them. He gave the brothers water to wash their feet and fodder for the donkeys. The brothers prepared their gifts for Joseph’s arrival at noon since they heard they were eating there.
When Joseph came home, they presented their gifts. Joseph asked them how their dad was doing and if he was still alive. They said he was and bowed to Joseph to pay him honour. Joseph saw Ben and asked if he was their youngest brother they talked about.
Joseph told Benjamin, “God be gracious to you, my son,” and hurried out to his private room to weep because he was deeply moved at seeing Ben. After washing his face, he came out controlling himself and gave the ‘go’ for food.
Joseph ate by himself, the brothers by themselves and the Egyptians by themselves, because Egyptians considered eating together with Hebrews detestable (“disgusting”). The brothers were seated oldest to youngest and looked at other astonished. The portion given to Ben was 5x (5 times) as much as anyone else’s. So they feasted and drank freely with him. (It must be a joyous occasion to meet your loved one after all the years)
Food for thought: We can see kindness in Joseph despite how his brothers treated him a bad way.
Luwena
Hello Young People,
This Saturday is visitor’s day, all friends and relatives are welcome to our church. Our youth room is specially cleansed and sterilised over the weekends hahah.. welcome welcome!
Let us continue to study God’s holy word in Genesis Chapter 44
Latest info, Our website has biblical comics too, check it out www.whycannot.com and post your comments on anything you like J
May God’s word be of great blessing to you today!
GENESIS CHAPTER 44 (Joseph take any revenge on his brothers?)
Joseph instructed the steward to fill his brother’s sacks with as much as they could carry and to put each man’s silver in the mouth of his sack. He was also to put Joseph’s silver cup into the mouth of the youngest one’s sack (Benjamin’s bag)
As morning dawned, the brothers had not gone far on their donkeys when Joseph told his steward to go after them and say to them, “Why have you repaid good with evil? Isn’t this the cup my master drinks from and also uses for divination? This is a wicked thing you have done.” (Joseph thought of this plot to put the silver cup into his brother Benjamin’s sack so that he can retain Benjamin in the palace saying that he stole the silver cup)
When the steward caught up with them, he repeated what his was told. But the brothers protested and said they were honest guys. They promised that if any one of them was found with it, he will die; the rest would become slaves.
The steward agreed with a more lenient promise; that the one found would become his slave but the rest would be free from blame. Each one quickly lowered and opened up their sacks. The steward searched all of theirs and found the cup in Benjamin’s sack. At this, they tore their clothes and loaded their donkeys and returned to the city.
Judah and his brothers arrived at Joseph's house while Joseph was still there. Immediately, they bowed with their faces touching the ground. Joseph asked them, "What have you done? Don't you know that a man like me can certainly divine (find out the future)?”
Judah replied that they were innocent and that now they were all going to be his slaves, but Joseph said he would only take the one who had the cup as slave. Judah recounted all the events of chapter 43 and explained that their father Jacob’s life is wrapped up with Benjamin’s life. If he came home without him, Jacob would die of grief. (Jacob loved his 2 sons Joseph and Benjamin very much as they were from Rachel. Thus, Jacob will die of grief if Benjamin didn’t return home)
Judah said that he made a promise to watch over Benjamin and take responsibility; he told Joseph to take him instead because he couldn’t bear to see his father’s misery if he went back without Ben. (We can see Judah, the big son of Jacob is pretty filial as he did not wish to see his father Jacob died of grief)
Food for thought: Why didn’t Joseph execute his brothers for revenge? Cos God is with him J
Luwena
Hello Young People,
Comeby church tonight at 8pm to pray together, prayer makes our life more intune with God and God will answer us in such crunch times!
Let us continue to study God’s holy word in Genesis Chapter 44
Latest info, Our website has biblical comics too, check it out www.whycannot.com and post your comments on anything you like J
May God’s word be of great blessing to you today!
GENESIS CHAPTER 45 (Joseph family renunion with his fathe Jacob and brothers)
Joseph couldn’t hold back anymore, so he commanded all his attendants to leave. He wept so loudly that the Egyptians heard him and Pharaoh’s household heard about it.
Joseph revealed his identity to his brothers. He told them to not beat up themselves with anger over what they did in the past. It was for the good of so many other people that God sent him ahead of them, as well as to save their lives. (Joseph is so forgiving and kind to his brothers despite their evil ways towards him)
It was not them that sent him to Egypt, but God. He made Joseph father to Pharaoh, lord of his entire household and ruler of all Egypt. Joseph then told his brothers to go back and get his father and everything they have, along with the children, flocks and herds.
Minds of Brothers Relieved.--They [Joseph's brothers] humbly confessed their wrongs which they had committed against Joseph, and entreated his forgiveness, and were greatly rejoiced to find that he was alive; for they had suffered remorse, and great distress of mind, since their cruelty toward him. And now as they knew that they were not guilty of his blood, their troubled minds were relieved (3SG 167). {1BC 1098.2}
They would settle in Goshen and be near Joseph. The brothers were also to go tell Jacob of all the honours Joseph had. Joseph then hugged Benjamin and both of them wept. He kissed all of his brothers and wept over them and then talked with them.
When Pharaoh heard of Joseph’s brothers, he and his officials were pleased. He told Joseph to tell his brothers to go back to Canaan and bring over the whole family. They would be given the best land in Egypt and enjoy the best food in the land. They were not to worry about their belongings because all the best in Egypt would be theirs. (The Pharoah must have liked Joseph very much!)
Joseph sent his brothers on their way, giving each a change of clothes, but to Benjamin 5 changes of clothes and 300 pieces of silver. He sent his father ten male donkeys carrying Egypt's best products and ten female donkeys carrying grain, bread, and food for his father's trip. “Don’t quarrel on the way back!” (Joseph knows his brothers’s character well)
When they got home, they told their father Jacob everything. Stunned, Jacob didn’t believe them. But then Israel saw the wagons Joseph had sent to bring him back, and his spirits were lifted. Convinced, Jacob decided to go to Egypt.
The sons of Jacob returned to their father with the joyful tidings, "Joseph is yet alive, and he is governor over all the land of Egypt." At first the aged man was overwhelmed; he could not believe what he heard; but when he saw the long train of wagons and loaded animals, and when Benjamin was with him once more, he was convinced, and in the fullness of his joy exclaimed, "It is enough; Joseph my son is yet alive: I will go and see him before I die." {PP 231.3} (Jacob must be overjoyed!!)
Another act of humiliation remained for the ten brothers. They now confessed to their father the deceit and cruelty that for so many years had embittered his life and theirs. Jacob had not suspected them of so base a sin, but he saw that all had been overruled for good, and he forgave and blessed his erring children. {PP 232.1} (At least the brothers repented and regret from what they have done against Joseph, turning over a new leaf is admirable!)
Food for thought: Turning over a new leaf is highly admirable J
Luwena
Hello Young People,
Let us continue to study God’s holy word in Genesis Chapter 46
Latest info, Our website has biblical comics too, check it out www.whycannot.com and post your comments on anything you like J
May God’s word be of great blessing to you today!
GENESIS CHAPTER 46 (Jacob & Joseph renunion)
On the way to Egypt, Jacob reached Beersheba and offered sacrifices to God. And God spoke to Jacob/ Israel in a vision at night and said, “Jacob! Jacob!”
“Here I am.” “I am God, the God of your father. Do not be afraid to go down to Egypt, for I will make you into a great nation there. I’ll go down to Egypt with you, and I will definitely bring you back again. Joseph’s own hand will close your eyes.” (Jacob will die of old age in Egypt)
Then Jacob left Beersheba, brining along everyone and everything else (grandkids, kids, possessions, etc.)
These are the names of the Israelites, Jacob and his descendants, who went to Egypt: Reuben, Jacob's firstborn.
Reuben’s sons: Hanoch, Pallu, Hezron, and Carmi.
Simeon's sons: Jemuel, Jamin, Ohad, Jakin, Zohar, and Shaul the son of a Canaanite woman.
Levi's sons: Gershon, Kohath, and Merari.
Judah's sons: Er, Onan, Shelah, Perez, and Zerah (Er and Onan had already died in the land of Canaan). The sons of Perez were Hezron and Hamul.
Issachar's sons: Tola, Puah, Jashub, and Shimron.
Zebulun's sons: Sered, Elon, and Jahleel.
These are the sons that Leah bore to Jacob in Paddan Aram. There was also his daughter Dinah. Altogether, sons and daughters, they numbered thirty-three.
Gad's sons: Zephon, Haggi, Shuni, Ezbon, Eri, Arodi, and Areli.
Asher's sons: Imnah, Ishvah, Ishvi, and Beriah. Also their sister Serah, and Beriah's sons, Heber and Malkiel.
These are the children that Zilpah, the maid that Laban gave to his daughter Leah, bore to Jacob--sixteen of them.
The sons of Jacob's wife Rachel were Joseph and Benjamin.
Joseph was the father of two sons, Manasseh and Ephraim, from his marriage to Asenath daughter of Potiphera, priest of On in Egypt.
Benjamin's sons were Bela, Beker, Ashbel, Gera, Naaman, Ehi, Rosh, Muppim, Huppim, and Ard.
14 children born to Jacob through Rachel.
Dan's son: Hushim.
Naphtali's sons: Jahziel, Guni, Jezer, and Shillem.
7 born to Jacob through Bilhah, the maid Laban had given to his daughter Rachel.
In total, all those who went down to Egypt with Jacob--his own children, not counting his sons' wives--numbered 66.
Including the two sons born to Joseph in Egypt, Jacob's family in Egypt numbered 70.
When the group reached Joseph, father and son hugged each other and cried. Jacob Israel felt that he could now die in peace, because he got to see Joseph alive.
Joseph instructed his brothers and the family members to tell Pharaoh they were shepherds when he asked for their job scope. That way he would let them stay apart in the area of Goshen, because Egyptians look down on anyone who is a shepherd.
Upon reaching Egypt the company proceeded directly to the land of Goshen. Thither came Joseph in his chariot of state, attended by a princely retinue. The splendor of his surroundings and the dignity of his position were alike forgotten; one thought alone filled his mind, one longing thrilled his heart. As he beheld the travelers approaching, the love whose yearnings had for so many long years been repressed, would no longer be controlled. He sprang from his chariot and hastened forward to bid his father welcome. "And he fell on his neck, and wept on his neck a good while. And Jacob/ Israel said unto Joseph, Now let me die, since I have seen thy face, because thou art yet alive." {PP 233.1} (Jacob must be overjoyed to see Joseph again)
Food for thought: Nil for today :)
Luwena
Hello Young People,
Happy Friday and TGIF!!! Tonight come to cell group and recharge at 8pm! Tomorrow evening there will be sundown worship and Pasir Ris, see you there!@
Let us continue to study God’s holy word in Genesis Chapter 47
Latest info, Our website has biblical comics too, check it out www.whycannot.com and post your comments on anything you like J
May God’s word be of great blessing to you today!
GENESIS CHAPTER 46 (Jacob’s last days in Egypt))
Joseph reported to Pharaoh of his family's arrival. When they were brought before Pharaoh, they answered his question just like Joseph told them to
Joseph took five of his brothers to present to Pharaoh and receive from him the grant of land for their future home. Gratitude to his prime minister would have led the monarch to honor them with appointments to offices of state; but Joseph, true to the worship of Jehovah/GOD, sought to save his brothers from the temptations to which they would be exposed at a heathen court; therefore he counseled them, when questioned by the king, to tell him frankly their occupation. The sons of Jacob followed this counsel, being careful also to state that they had come to sojourn in the land, not to become permanent dwellers there, thus reserving the right to depart if they chose. The king assigned them a home, as offered, in "the best of the land," the country of Goshen. {PP 233.2} (Another name for God is Jehovah, Joseph doesn’t want his brothers to be exposed to the temptations of a heathen kingdom and vices, thus, he advice his brothers to continue to be shepherds as they can leave egypt anytime they wish, more freedom)
Pharaoh decided to let them live in the best land (for farming), Goshen. Joseph introduced Jacob and Pharaoh asked him his age (130 yrs old). Then Jacob blessed Pharaoh and left.
Not long after their arrival Joseph brought his father Jacob also to be presented to the king. The patriarch was a stranger in royal courts; but amid the sublime scenes of nature he had communed with a mightier Monarch; and now, in conscious superiority, he raised his hands and blessed Pharaoh. {PP 233.3}
Joseph collected all the money that was to be found in Egypt and Canaan to pay for the distribution of food. He banked the money in Pharaoh's palace. (Joseph was honest and upright)
When the money in Egypt and Canaan was gone, all the Egyptians came to Joseph. They complained that they had no money and were going to starve. Joseph replied that he’d exchange food for livestock.
When they had no more livestock, they sold their fields. Joseph didn't buy the priests' land because the priests received an income from Pharaoh, and they lived on that income.
Joseph gave the people seeds to plant crops. He told them to give one-fifth of the produce to Pharaoh. Four-fifths will be for their own families. Later it was made into a law. (Joseph was an intelligent man who has saved the Egyptian nation from starvation or they would have been non existence today)
So the Israelites settled in Egypt in the region of Goshen. They acquired property there and had many children. (The Isrealites grew so big that they became the 2nd largest nation in Egypt)
Jacob lived in Egypt 17 years, so he lived a total of 147 years. Dying, he called Joseph and told him, “"I want you to swear that you love me and are faithful to me. Please don't bury me here. I want to rest with my ancestors. Take me out of Egypt, and bury me in their tomb.” (The swearing from Joseph means to be faithful to God and God only)
Joseph agreed and swore to Jacob.
In his first greeting to Joseph, Jacob had spoken as if, with this joyful ending to his long anxiety and sorrow, he was ready to die. But seventeen years were yet to be granted him in the peaceful retirement of Goshen. These years were in happy contrast to those that had preceded them. He saw in his sons evidence of true repentance; he saw his family surrounded by all the conditions needful for the development of a great nation; and his faith grasped the sure promise of their future establishment in Canaan. He himself was surrounded with every token of love and favor that the prime minister of Egypt could bestow; and happy in the society of his long-lost son, he passed down gently and peacefully to the grave. {PP 233.4}
As he felt death approaching, he sent for Joseph. Still holding fast the promise of God respecting the possession of Canaan, he said, "Bury me not, I pray thee, in Egypt: but I will lie with my fathers, and thou shalt carry me out of Egypt, and bury me in their burying place." Joseph promised to do so, but Jacob was not satisfied; he exacted a solemn oath to lay him beside his fathers in the cave of Machpelah. {PP 234.1} (Jacob is so fortunate in the end to die peacefully)
Food for thought: May we learn from the lesson of Jacob, never have more than 1 wife and also do not practice favouritism within the family J Have a great weekend ya!