Genesis 45:16—47:31: God Preserves His People
DO YOU EVER wonder how the bits and pieces of your life fit together? This study shows how the seemingly unrelated and perplexing events of the preceding chapters now serve God's purpose to preserve Jacob's family during the coming famine. This account can strengthen our faith and hope as we work through difficult situations we cannot understand.
Warming Up to God
After years of separation and trials, Jacob and Joseph are reunited. What relationships or areas of your life seem untouchable by God's grace? Pray for God to renew your hope—and to answer your "hopeless" requests.
Read Genesis 45:16—47:31. »
Discovering the Word
- What is Pharaoh's reaction to the news that Joseph's brothers have arrived (45:16-24)?
- Beersheba had been Isaac's center of worship. As God confirms this move to Egypt, what encouragement does he give Jacob for both the immediate and distant future (46:1-4)?
- How do verses 5-27 of chapter 46 underscore God's faithfulness to the promises he made to Abraham, Isaac and Jacob?
- How does Joseph's skill as a planner and administrator continue to show itself as he arranges for his father's family to settle in Goshen (46:28-34)?
- What does 47:13-27 reveal about God's purpose in bringing Joseph to Egypt?
- How does Jacob's last request of Joseph show his faith in God's promise regarding his descendants and their own land (47:28-30)?
Applying the Word
- Has God ever allowed you to see how seemingly unrelated events fit into the tapestry of his will? Explain.
- What important promise or prayer request are you patiently waiting for God to fulfill?
Responding in Prayer
Thank God for his loving control over the lives of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. Praise him for ordering your steps according to his benevolent will.
For Further Study
Abraham by Jack Kuhatschek