Reflect
Managing livestock was not something that the Egyptians were particularly fond of. There was an aversion to the occupation as plant agriculture was the main source of livelihood and purpose – it was the foundation for the Egyptian economy. It was a vital part of their lives as they arranged fields, irrigate, collect, and harvest the crop. What good are a bunch of shepherds in a place where it was not valued or seen as important?
What made it even more surprising is that Jacob was well beyond the age of working, yet he settled with his sons in the land of Rameses. But what might've caught you off guard was that Jacob blesses Pharaoh twice even though he wasn’t a believer, and Joseph shows obedience to the most powerful man on earth. Joseph did not undermine Pharoah with his God-given gifts but displayed humility. Both actions required faith that reflected their journey in Egypt as God’s appointment plan.
Jacob was someone who struggled and lost faith; now at the age of 130, Jacob continues to trust the Lord to Egypt.
Apply
It’s not easy to trust God with your relationships, mental health, the different challenges that you may be facing. As you look at Jacob’s actions, how might you take a tangible step to trust in the Lord?
Pastor Nathanael
Pray
- Pray for our childcare team, the children and their families this week. Pray for the interim Director, Angie.
- Pray for our Audio/Visual Director, Grant Mix.
- Pray for our Lead Team Pastor, Terry Okken and his family.