(Genesis 44-45) (ESV) Give us the story of Joseph's revelation to his brothers about who he is. Remember they had not recognized him. After he revealed himself to them, he sent them back to Canaan to bring his father and their families down to Egypt. There were yet five years of famine to get through. Pharaoh was in agreement, and even sent wagons and provisions for the journey. We can see how God sent Joseph ahead to make provision for them during the famine. (Verses 4-8) So Joseph said to his brothers, "Come near to me, please." And they came near. And he said, "I am your brother, Joseph, whom you sold into Egypt. And now do not be distressed or angry with yourselves because you sold me here, for God sent me before you to preserve life. For the famine has been in the land these two years, and there are yet five years in which there will be neither plowing nor harvest. And God sent me before you to preserve for you a remnant on earth, and to keep alive for you many survivors. So it was not you who sent me here, but God. He has made me a father to Pharaoh, and lord of all his house and ruler over all the land of Egypt."
When I read this story, I'm reminded of my days as a military family member. I was none too happy to have to leave my grandmother's side; first as a seven-year-old, and then again as a twelve-year-old. I never did get back to Germany to visit with her in person. I remember whenever we complained during our travels, my father saying, "You should be thankful; you've got miles of education." I said that to say this: Had I had my way, Heaven only knows what I may have gotten myself into! Furthermore, had I not experienced those "miles of education," I would not have met the people I met, I would not have learned some of the things I learned, I may not have become the person that I am today. As a matter of fact, had I not gone through some of the things I've gone through in my lifetime, I know I wouldn't be the person that I am today! And, let me tell you, I have had to thank God for every single ordeal! Every single ordeal netted me precious treasures in the way of spiritual growth, strength –as a woman, and as a human being, compassion, humility, and a stronger and stronger faith in God. My grandmother used to say that God can see around the corners; we can't. (Deut. 1:30) –The fight is with the evil that would destroy your soul in those adverse circumstances. (Deut. 31:8) "It is the LORD who goes before you. He will be with you; he will not leave you or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed." The Word of God always, and forever, confirms His loving kindness toward us; His love for us.
Love you from Café du Mondieu
Copyright by Marina Morrison (aka) Eden Stillwater, January 5, 2023, 12:03 p.m.
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