
Egypt 1 – Unexpected
Joseph and You
“Flourishing in all seasons of life”
Unexpected: something that happens without warning or anticipation, often catching people off guard due to the unforeseen that’s ahead.
Have you ever taken an unexpected journey?
What were your expectations?
What were your concerns?
What were your fears?
Today, we delve into the rich narrative of Genesis 42, a chapter that captures the essence of reconciliation, redemption, and the mysterious workings of divine providence. This chapter marks the beginning of a profound journey for the family of Jacob, as they embark on their first trip to Egypt in search of food during a time of famine. As we dissect this passage, we uncover timeless truths that can resonate with our lives today.
What motivated them to take this unexpected journey?
And all the countries came to Egypt to buy grain from Joseph, because the famine was severe in all the word. When Jacob learned that there was grain in Egypt, he said to his sons, “Why do you just keep looking at each other?” He continued, “I have heard that there is grain in Egypt. Go down there and buy some for us, so that we may live and not die.”
Gen. 41:57, 42:1-2 (NIV)
Famine had brought them to Egypt
How can we flourish facing the unexpected?
How is our family dynamics with the unforeseen?
Where is our faith in the uncertainty?
What did they encounter in this unexpected place?
So, when Joseph’s brother’s arrived, they bowed down to him with their faces to the ground. As soon as Joseph saw his brothers, he recognized them, but he pretended to be a stranger and spoke harshly to them. “Where do you come from?” “From the land of Caanan,” they replied, “to buy food.” Although Joseph recognized his brothers, they did not recognize him. Then he remembered his dreams about them and said to them, “You are spies! You have come to see where our land is unprotected.”
Gen. 42:6b-9 (NIV)
Encountered an unexpected reception by Joseph (20 years had passed)
(The tables had turned for Joseph, the odds were in his favor now)
Encountered harsh words with accusations
Tested without warning (Gen. 42:10-17)
Put in prison for three days to think
What did they feel in this unexpected place?
They felt guilt and weight over the past and how they treated Joseph
They felt remorse, regret and shame over the past
They felt their day of reckoning had come
“Guilt can be a powerful force, haunting us and influencing our decisions. However, it also serves as a catalyst for repentance and transformation.”
“Guilt is cancer. Guilt with confine you, torture you, and destroy you…It’s a black wall. It’s a thief!” ~ Dave Grohl
What did realize in this unexpected place?
Their hearts sank and they turned to each other trembling and said, “What is this that God has done to us?” ` Gen. 42:28b (NIV)
Their trial is one of conscience, heart and faith
That they need to make things right with God
That they need to make things right with their Dad
What was resolved in this unexpected dilemma?
Then Rueben said to his father, “You may put both my sons to death if I do not bring him (Benjamin) back to you. Entrust him to my care, and I will bring him back.” ~ Gen. 42:37 (NIV)
Behind the scenes of this narrative lies the providence of God, orchestrating events in ways the characters could not comprehend. Despite the hardships and trials they faced, God was working out His plan for their lives. The journey to Egypt was not merely about acquiring food; it was a journey of self-discovery, reconciliation, and ultimately, fulfillment of divine prophecy.
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. ~ Rom. 8:28 (NIV)
What his brothers did not know:
They didn’t realize that this experience would change their lives.
They didn’t realize that they would have the opportunity to earn trust and prove their honesty.
They didn’t realize that this was their brother Joseph, and he had a plan in mind for all of them.
What can we take away from this passage?
How does this story encourage us to face our past mistakes, failures, and sins?
How can we flourish with the unexpected in our lives?
Where do you fit in this story?
What can we learn about God’s timing and providence?
We are meant to flourish in all seasons of life, like Joseph.
“A God-shaped life is a flourishing tree.”
Prov. 11:28b (MSG)