Today I read Genesis 45, which talks about Joseph embracing his brothers and being sent to Egypt to save his family. Today I thought about how emotions are normal for us and sometimes an individual’s hardship can save their family.
Emotion is Okay
People should be able to express their emotions to trusted family and good friends. Joseph sent out all the Egyptians and cried before his brothers (Genesis 45:1-2). Joseph embraced Benjamin and was crying on his neck. Benjamin also cried. Then Joseph did the same to his other brothers. Men and women are human beings with emotions and it is okay to cry sometimes.
Gift of Goshen
God took a hardship and turned it into a blessing for an entire people. Joseph says God had him go to Egypt as a slave to preserve the family (Genesis 45:7) because there are five years of famine left in the land. Joseph then had his brothers go to Canaan to bring the entire family, their flocks, and goods to come live in Goshen. Even Pharaoh encouraged Joseph to bring his family to Egypt and said they can use his wagons to help them move. God tells us to endure until the end. We do not know who we will help or save.
Questions and Thoughts for Today
For over 20 years Joseph was either a slave or in jail but he learned to manage large properties and people. Joseph was ready when God had him save a nation and his family.
What things have you learned that you were surprised were very useful later?