Genesis 39:1-41:16 + Matthew 12:46-13:23 + Psalm 17:1-15 + Proverbs 3:33-35
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Old Testament – Today in Genesis chapter 39 we read about Joseph in Potiphar’s house! Verse 5 stood out to me in this chapter: “From the day Joseph was put in charge, the LORD began to bless Potiphar for Joseph’s sake. All his household affairs began to run smoothly, and his crops and livestock flourished.” I found it fascinating that God was blessing Potiphar for Joseph’s sake. It reminded me of God blessing Laban for Jacob’s sake earlier in Genesis. And I wonder – does God today continue to bless others around those who love God? For the sake of those who love God? I will admit that there are definitely times in my work life, where I feel like some very positive things are happening that are beyond me. Things I am not “controlling” on my own – it’s something more. I do try to pray about my work life and pray that God will bless my business dealings – mostly to keep me honest & moral in my business dealings. And that God will allow me to love and serve others during the day. And big crazy good things continue happen – something happened just today that was unbelievable to me. It did not happen because of my own wits or power. Below is an image from a modern day production of “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” of Joseph in Potiphar’s house:
Verses 8 & 9 also stood out to me in today’s readings, demonstrating Joseph’s strong moral integrity when being approached by Potiphar’s wife: “But Joseph refused. “Look,” he told her, “my master trusts me with everything in his entire household. No one here has more authority than I do! He has held back nothing from me except you, because you are his wife. How could I ever do such a wicked thing? It would be a great sin against God.”” I admire this so much. Joseph was gaining more and more favor with Potiphar and more and more “power” so to speak. And here we see a situation where Joseph could have abused his favor and power. But he did not. He stood strong with his moral convictions. And I wonder about this in our lives. As we maybe gain more and more favor in our work or personal or ministry lives, do we also gain more and more “power” so to speak? And when this happens, do the temptations maybe even somehow seem to get bigger and bigger and our opportunity to abuse our favor or power get easier and easier? And in light of all this, will we stand strong by our moral convictions? Will we realize, like Joseph, that our favor or power only comes from God – and it can be taken away in an instant if we sin against God? If we give in to the temptation that pursues us… Below is an oil on canvas painting by Rembrandt from 1655 titled “Joseph Accused by Potiphar’s wife”:
In Genesis chapter 41 we read about Pharaoh’s dreams and Joseph is called from prison to interpret them. The cup-bearer finally remembered Joseph 2 years later! 🙂 Verse 16 is powerful for us to consider as Pharaoh calls for Joseph to interpret his dreams: “”It is beyond my power to do this,” Joseph replied. “But God will tell you what it means and will set you at ease.”” What I like about this reply from Joseph is that he is giving credit to God for his “gift” of being able to interpret dreams! And really, it is God interpreting the dreams, and letting Joseph know what to say. I wonder about this in our lives today. Do we have some unique gifts in our lives? Things that we are really good at? And do we give credit to God for these gifts in our life? Or do we claim them as gifts we developed on our own? Do you believe that God is truly the Gift-Giver of all your skills and talents and wisdom in your life? Below is an image of Joseph before Pharaoh interpreting his dreams:
Bible.org’s commentary on Genesis chapter 39 titled “From the Penthouse to the Prison” is at this link and commentary on chapter 40 titled “How to Get Out of the Pits” is at this link.
New Testament – Matthew 12 verses 48 through 50 are powerful: “Jesus asked, “Who is my mother? Who are my brothers?” Then he pointed to his disciples and said, “These are my mother and brothers. Anyone who does the will of my Father in heaven is my brother and sister and mother!”” I read an interesting commentary that said that these words from Jesus were stating that spiritual bonds are as strong as physical bonds. And that in this teaching Jesus was paving the way for a new community of believers – the church! Very cool… Are you a brother and sister and mother of Jesus?
Matthew chapter 13 verses 11 & 12 are important for us to consider: “Then he (Jesus) explained to them, “You have been permitted to understand the secrets of the Kingdom of Heaven, but others have not. To those who are open to my teaching, more understanding will be given, and they will have an abundance of knowledge. But to those who are not listening, even what they have will be taken away from them.” There is so much truth in these last 2 sentences. This is why personally I feel so blessed to be reading the One Year Bible each and every day – currently in my 18th year of doing so – and God-willing, for all of my years to come. I personally absolutely need the grace and wisdom that comes from being in God’s Word every day – and truly, more and more understanding and knowledge of God and Jesus and the Holy Spirit does come my way I believe each day – even if (and especially if!) I am reading the Bible again for the 18th time. The repetition is not repetitive, but really allows for insights to soak in and to be revealed. I can’t quite say that I feel like I have an abundance of knowledge… 🙂 But – I know that I am on that road by reading the Bible each day and I so look forward to gaining more and more knowledge of God’s story as I go. And – to grow deeper into relationship with God and Jesus and the Holy Spirit. So – the knowledge itself is great, but the relationship and peace and grace that comes from the Trinity – even better. I pray that you too see the value in reading the Bible each day and being open to Jesus’ teachings so that more understanding will come your way?
Verse 22 in this chapter is convicting for me, as I have experienced this in my life in the past…. “The thorny ground represents those who hear and accept the Good News, but all too quickly the message is crowded out by the cares of this life and the lure of wealth, so no crop is produced.” …. and I still struggle with the “cares of this life” crowding out the Good News in my life today! I think in some ways this might be a life long struggle. How are you doing on this verse? Where is God’s seed of the Good News being sown in your life? In the good soil of your heart?
Bible.org’s commentary on today’s readings in Matthew chapter 13 titled “The Parable of the Sower and the Seed” is at this link and “The Parables of Matthew 13” are at this link.
Psalms – In Psalm 17 David appeals to God as Judge when he is being attacked by foes. Verse 7 is a great prayer and comfort! “Show me your unfailing love in wonderful ways. You save with your strength those who seek refuge from their enemies.” Do you seek refuge with God from whatever might attacking you? Do you believe that God will show you his unfailing love in wonderful ways? Have you been saved by God’s strength? Have you sought refuge with God from your “enemies”?
Proverbs – Proverbs 3:33 is a great reminder to be upright, 3:34 is a great reminder to be humble and 3:35 a great reminder to be wise! How are you doing on being upright, humble, and wise these days? (I think this owl below has got two out of three of these attributes… I’m not so sure about humble though… 🙂
Worship Video: Our readings in Psalm 17:7 today remind me of the song “Mighty To Save.” Here’s Laura Story performing the song live:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tcwBUauhobY
Is God Mighty to Save in your life? Click here for his Might!
Please join me in memorizing and meditating on a verse of Scripture today: “For whoever does the will of my Father in heaven is my brother and sister and mother.” Matthew 12:50 TNIV
Prayer Point: Pray that you would do the will of God each and every day in your life. Pray that you would be Jesus’ brother and sister and mother now and forevermore.
Comments from You and Questions of the Day: Based on my comments above related to our readings in Genesis about God blessing Potiphar for Joseph’s sake – I wonder – does God intervene and bless our work lives? I think He does. I’d love to get your opinions on this – do you pray about your work life regularly? Do you think God blesses your work life? And like Joseph, does God maybe bless those around you, even if they aren’t necessarily in relationship with God? And maybe does He do this for your sake? Also, what verses or insights stand out to you in today’s readings? Please post up by clicking on the “Comments” link below!
God bless,
Mike
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BLOG READERS HISTORICAL COMMUNITY COMMENTS:
======= Ramona:
Genesis 39-41:16
I’m not sure if my brain is functioning so early this morning, and maybe I’m hallucinating, but again I’m seeing something in the text that I have certainly read but never seen before, which ties into the admonishment in the Book of Isaiah Jesus refers to in today’s New Testament reading:
He said, “Go and tell these people: ‘Listen continually, but don’t understand! Look continually, but don’t perceive!’ Make the hearts of these people calloused; make their ears deaf and their eyes blind! Otherwise they might see with their eyes and hear with their ears, their hearts might understand and they might repent and be healed.”
(Isaiah 6:9-10 NET.)
Joseph’s story is a picture of the world of the believer and the traps and temptations that God’s people faced before Messiah and after Messiah. This story also points to the coming salvation of God’s people, Israel and spiritual Israel, the church, and toward the Hope of the world, Jesus Christ (I think what I just said is redundant). One of these illustrations is the suffering servant, for doing right (righteous) and dealing in truth, Joseph is taunted by sin and then sin’s lies has him imprisoned. Jesus came to deal with our sin and paid the price by hanging on a tree, going down into the prison of death, the grave, he conquered it and sin, then rose from the grave. Joseph rose up from his death in the prison.
The number seven, seven cows, seven heads of wheat, represents the fullness of time, when the time was right Jacob showed up to interpret the dream and that interpretation, born of God, would deliver the people from the death of lack of bread. One of Jesus’ name is the Bread of Life.
But when the proper time had fully come, God sent His Son, born of a woman, born subject to [the regulations of] the Law,
(Galatians 4:4 AMP)
Everything in this narrative relates to Jesus Christ, everything. As we read though the Old Testament, we will see types and shadows of the things to come (for those who are new to reading through the Bible that are alluded to in these couple of chapters. We will read about the sacrifice system (cows) God places in the Temple, we will read about the fruit of the Vine (New Wine-in the New Testament) and the “grain” offering that is given allusion to with Pharaoh’s cup bearer (wine) and his baker (his bread contains yeast, which represents the world’s sin).
All of this stuff may have been written about in commentaries, but I’ve said this before and I’ll probably repeat it often, “Revelation is not revelation until it is revelation to you.”
I am so excited that I can hardly sit still long enough to finish typing this out so again,
Grace and peace,
Ramona
======= Micah Girl:
Joseph is my biggest hero, at least this week!
It’s all about God for Joseph, no matter the circumstances. And every task he is given is like a sacred calling from God–there is no complaining, no whining, no wondering why God is unfair, or wishing that his talents were being better utilized. It’s not just a matter of Joseph’s deep gladness meeting the world’s deep hunger. He’s just faithful. Period. (And do you think that David could have been faithful in that situation, with Potiphar’s wife throwing herself at him??)
Not only are people blessed around Joseph in the workplace, but he is trusted with more and more authority–he is promoted–because of his work ethic and integrity. If we expect to have a witness in our workplace we need to be working as if for God and not for men, and then we have a platform for influencing others around us.
Micah Girl
======= Andrew:
I echo Mike’s comment about Matthew 13:22 – and the ongoing ‘struggle with the “cares of this life” crowding out the Good News in my life today.’
How DO we break through and live in the fullness of being reborn? Why do we not quite make it to soaring like eagles and having regular walking-on-the-water parties?
Andrew
======= John:
RE: mike’s ?:
I did not mention this in my testimony, but the day after I accepted Christ as my Savior – I was called into the office and given a 50% increase in salary. More importantly, when I personally acknowledged that I worked for Jesus and not my company – my day became more efficient. What used to take me 8-9 hours now takes 6-7 hours. So yes,I believed God has blessed me in the workplace.
Lastly, I do pray about work. Maybe not as one might think. I pray for harmony in the office, for the opportunity to witness, for the opportunity to minister, for the salvation of co-workers, For The holy Spirit to dispence grace and strength to the Christians in the office so they reflect Christ-like Qualities. I try to pray in the will of God. I was very fortunate early on in walk with Christ to listen to tapes from Moody Church in Chicago regarding how to pray in the Will of God.*
* “Seeking the Heart of God:How to pray so that God will answer”.
Matt 13:22 and Andrew B.’s ?:
“How DO we break through and live in the fullness of being reborn?”
When I finally committed to a church, I decided to employ something most business schools advocate. Find someone you think is doing things correctly, talk to them, ask how they got to where they are, emulate them.
I looked around at the elders, talked to pastors, and observed characteristics of the elders.
What I learned from them is also in the New Testament, but I can’t find it right now:
1) Stay in fellowship with God.
2) Worship
3) Pray
4) Give
5) Stay in the Word
6) Fast
7) Minister to others
TWO THINGS:
– If #1 is not taken care of almost daily, the other six will suffer as will the fullness of your relationship to God.
– Do all the above JOYFULLY. If you go thru the motions, it will hamper the fullness of your relationship to God.
My hardest thing used to be to lend books, CD’s, money to Christians. My experiance has been that as a group – Chrisitans – are the absolute worst at returning things. For a month or so, it really bothered me, and I prayed a LOT about my ill feelings to my brothers and sisters in Christ. One day I came upon the solution. Now I just give the stuff away. “JOYFULLY”. It may sound more expensive, but truthfully – I have not noticed much of an effect on my bank account or savings. I just tell the people that when they have finished with the resource to pass it along to someone else. Then it is between them and God what they do with the book, CD, money. It is not about me anymore.
John
====== Vince:
Hi there,
I’m a HUGE fan of ‘Joseph – Dreamcoat’ but shows are so hard to find. I saw pictures on your site of a play you once put on and was just wondering if there was anyway at all I could see it or even just the entire “Potiphar scene/song”. Either by buying a copy, renting/borrowing a copy, or even somehow online via email or YouTube or something. And, again if the entire show is too much to load or copy, just posting the “Potiphar” sequence would be great too, as it’s one of my favorate songs of the show.
Thanks so much for your time and I really hope to hear from you.
Best wishes.
Vince
======= Jayne:
Hello!! I do believe that God blesses those around me…because I ask Him to! Everyday I ask God to bless the path I walk and all those that cross it. I don’t think you can ask for blessings just for yourself. God is willing to share His love and therefore, He also shares His blessings.
As for blessing my work, I just recently gave into the fight I was having with God about my job. I disliked the fact that I was always doing administrative jobs. And one day, it just hit me. I realized that this was the talent given to me by God. I’m meant to help organize. And I ask for help at work from God all the time. And because of that, I think I am able to get through my days much easier now.
Jayne
======= Anka:
In Potiphar’s home,I think the household servants were supposed to be well,in the household.I’m kinda thinking Potiphar’s wife had their absence planned.When she reported what Joseph had done,there’s no recorded reaction….they should have been happy to see the hebrew slave who became boss over them go down….I think just like Joesph was so concerned about the kings servants that he immediately noticed when they were down cast,Joseph must have been a good example to those he was placed over.
To the baker,he didn’t mince words,he told him things as they were.I think there are times in our lives when we need to speak the truth to our loved ones,even if it hurts them….I’m not sure how I’d react if I had to tell someone that they are going to die…
In today’s NT reading,I kept wondering why Jesus took aside His disciples to explain to them better,leaving the crowd in their ignorance….then it occurred to me,the crowd didn’t make any attempt to find out more about his teachings…they wanted the miracles,not His words of truth.
I need to pray daily for grace at work.Recently in a discussion a consultant openly said some ugly racist remarks…I didn’t say anything because I was so mad….I pray for grace to forgive him and when I do speak to him to be able to speak in love.I also pray for grace to be a light at work cos so many times things get so crazy there….speaking of which,it’s time to get on my knees and talk to God about today as well….cos I sure need grace at work:)
God bless you all
Anka
======= Mae:
I have to keep this short, I totally messed up my perfect schedule for today!!!! It’s my husband’s birthday tomorrow and I’m preparing everything. Thought I had it all together, but apparantly I don’t LOL
Matthew 13:27-29 stood out for me:
Jesus replied, “The Son of Man is the farmer who plants the good seed. The field is the world, and the good seed represents the people of the Kingdom. The weeds are the people who belong to the evil one. The enemy who planted the weeds among the wheat is the devil. The harvest is the end of the world, and the harvesters are the angels.
Psalm 18:3 is wonderful! And just how I feel it … it’s so true …
The Lord is my rock, my fortress, and my savior;
my God is my rock, in whom I find protection.
He is my shield, the power that saves me,
and my place of safety.
Have a great weekend!
Mae
======= Kathryn:
I used to work for a very wise and mature Christian lady who gave the glory to God, even in the most minute aspects of her work life. At that time it annoyed me, but now I see that as my immaturity. She was highly successful, there really was no denying it: God had His hand firmly in her work life and He multiplied the fruit of her labor for His glory. Now that I am a little older, I too have seen Him surround me with His blessing at work–even when there was deep trouble everywhere. He has allowed me to shine, and I’m just not that “shiny” on my own. The opposite has also shown itself: those who are far from God are brought down. They are defeated and diminished in their work. What they do does not last.
Kathryn
======= Bill:
QUESTIONS OF THE DAY:
“…does God intervene and bless our work lives? …do you pray about your work life regularly? Do you think God blesses your work life? And like Joseph, does God maybe bless those around you, even if they aren’t necessarily in relationship with God?…”
I’m retired now but when I was in the work force, yes, to all of these questions. I know that without a doubt that God blessed the work of my hands and gave me the wisdom to do my job well and efficiently. Once my boss put me in charge of the department on a Saturday. The night before I was overwhelmed thinking about the amount of work I knew we had to do the next day. So I prayed about it. Well, the Lord gave me wisdom how to organize it and I was amazed how smoothly it went. It turned out we did a record number of invoices for one day in that department. I knew it was because of the Lord. On the job not only did I take personal pride in my work but I wanted to glorify God in all that I did no matter how insignificant, monontonous or menial my job seemed sometimes. In my morning devotions before I went to work I asked God to help me to keep a good testimony before my unsaved co-workers, to avoid strife and contention with them, for patience in stressful situations, that I could stay injury-free and that the company would prosper. I prayed during contract negotiations, in times of financial health and prosperity and when the company was facing bankruptcy. God always answered my prayers. I really don’t think I could have handled all the pressure of my workplace if I didn’t have God to lean on and, thank God, I did have him for 28 out of the 30 years I worked there.
GENESIS 39:1-41:16
I have to admire Joseph too for the way he handled the sexual temptation. Potipher’s wife was throwing herself at him on a daily basis ( 39:10 )and finally ended up literally ripping his clothes off ( 39:12-13 ). Women don’t get more sexually aggressive than that. Many men would have yielded. God must have strengthened Joseph to withstand it. I generally don’t have women coming on strong with me like he did but I can still relate to what Joseph endured and there is a moral lesson to be learned there. Adultery is sin ( 39:9 )and God has not changed his view of that. Joseph could have avoided the charges of sexual misconduct by not allowing himself to be alone with Potipher’s wife. He should have had a couple of other servants with him at all times as witnesses. So it was Potipher’s wife’s word against Joseph’s. Joseph didn’t stand a chance.
Apparently Joseph had the same gift from God to interpret dreams that the prophet Daniel had. Both succeeded where the wise men and magicians failed ( Genesis 41:8; Daniel 1:20; 2:1-12 ) and both gave glory to God ( Genesis 40:8, 41:16; Daniel 2:23 ). At least Pharoah told them what the dream was first before he expected them to interpret, unlike Nebuchadnezzar who wanted them to tell him the dream as well as the interpretation. Obviously we should avoid trying to interpret dreams or to seek counsel or advice from those who practice occultism. There are several other parallels with Joseph and Daniel so it’s beneficial to study both of the passages of Scripture together.
MATTHEW 12:46-13:23
It seemed that Jesus deliberately downplayed his relationship with his mother Mary ( 12:46-48 ). First, of all He wanted us to understand that all members of the Body of Christ belong to the family of God ( 12: 49-50 ). The “ Holy Family “ is not just Jesus, Mary and Joseph. Secondly, I believe that Jesus, in His foreknowledge as God, knew that centuries later there would be some in the Church who would be bowing down before statues of His mother and worshipping her. This is one passage of Scripture that exposes that heresy.
PSALM 17:1-15
I love verse 15. Here we have a promise of our own resurrection from the dead and the changing of our bodies to be like the risen, glorified body of Jesus Christ. The Sadducees who often opposed Jesus during His earthly ministry did not believe in the resurrection of the dead ( Matthew 22:23-33 ). Psalm 17:15 reveals their ignorance of Scripture and exposes their error.
“ Behold, I show you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, 52In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed. “
– 1 Corinthians 15:51-52 ( KJV )
PROVERBS 3:33-35
The worldly wise, because of their intellectual pride, scorn the wisdom of God and so shall they also receive scorn from Him. However, God’s wisdom is imparted by grace to those who are humble enough to receive it.
Bill
======= Jenny:
I love these chapters of Genesis! I love how Joseph resisted sexual temptation. He may have ‘gotten away with it’ concerning Potapher, but he near the Lord was watching Him. “How then could I do such a wicked thing and sin against God?” ..I often remember this when I am in a tempting situation, ppl will say, ‘no one will know’, but God knows! He is who I would sin against! The Bible says to flee temptation…Joseph literally didnt that by jetting out of there! I give him mad props! I also love how the Lord gave him favor in the eyes of his master. I remember this on the job, when I have started a new job or a new boss, i ask God to give me favor in their eyes and God does! every time! I am trusted, respected by them and given priveleges because the Lord is in me….and Christ’s influence is reflected. He has been soooo good to me in this area.
My pastor was going over these verses a while back. Joseph was in prison many yrs, he had no idea how long he’d be there. He didnt know what God had in store for him. i bet those were long years, the cupbarer forgot about him. Joseph may have been asking, God why am i here? He had no idea how greatly God was gonna use and bless him. Many times we may be in a difficult situation, may not be literal prison, but we may wonder why we are there and how long…we may cannot see what God is gonna do. But God’s ways are way beyond ours. He sure works in ways we dont understand, but one thing, He never fails, His will prevails.
I love Gen 46:16, when asked to interpret the dream, Joseph replies: “I cannot do it, but God will give Pharaoh the answer he desires.” Joseph knew it wasnt his own wisdom, but from God, and he takes no crediit for himself, but gives God the glory.
I love the parable of the seeds. Most believers I’m sure have all shared with people and have seen each of these results, the first two are so sad. We must continue to pray for people, our unbelieving loved ones are lost and dying. It breaks my heart, some people i share with and i just wanna grab them a shake them! ‘this is the truth, I love you! I dont want u to go to hell!’
I love Ps. v8 “Keep me as the apple of your eye; hide me in the shadow of your wings”. AMazing!!! WE are the apple of His eye! Those who love Him and serve Him…its hard to understand this kind of love..the God who created the whole universe, and He cherishes us!
Prov.:”The LORD’s curse is on the house of the wicked, but he blesses the home of the righteous.” Man, who wouldnt want to be God’s child!?! He gives us soo much love, protection, peace, joy, etc, His blessing are countless! Not to mention the promise of eternity with Him. How awesome to be His child!
Jenny
======= Gina:
Yes, I do believe God intervenes in our work lives. I do pray about my work and my husband’s work. There are some struggles I have with my job and I continially pray for God to show his mercy and grace.
I do love the story of Joseph. He got such a bad deal all the time, but we always see that Gos was with him. Great reminder that even though we don’t see results or big things happening in our lives right now, God is still in control and working all things out for good!
The verses is Matthew today really remind me of my ministry at church. It’s called Say “Yes”. Our team is the first to speak with those who make a committment to Christ during our services. We get to talk with them and pray with them. I love it and I’m alway so amazed at seeing the hearts of those who come forward. But what we do see also are those who seem to have an “emotional” experience. They come forward that one day, then we can’t seem to find them after that! We do lots of follow-up with each person and unfortunaltely, we find those where the seed has fallen on rocky places…they were excited and emotional for one day, then all seems to go back to the way it was for them. So as awesome as this ministry is, it is sad too.
Upright, humble and wise….well, only by God’s grace and power can we be any of these! I’m so glad he loves us enough to not leave us the way he found us!
Gina
======= Brad:
Psalm 17:14 May what you have stored up for the wicked fill their bellies;
may their children gorge themselves on it,
may there be leftovers for their little ones.
Proverbs 3:33 The LORD’s curse is on the house of the wicked,
but he blesses the home of the righteous.
Both of these verses echo a famillar theme: the sins of parents being visited upon their children. This provides a great reason to live our lives honoring God–so that our children will be blessed–and not cursed for our sinfulness.
In a sinful home it is possible that the children have been taught little concerning God and Jesus Christ. Thus, these children will not likely follow the Lord or gain much wisdom. Parents need to become wise and Godly in order to bless their children and raise them well–loving God.
Brad
======= Laverne:
Gifts and talents: After years of hearing my friends and church family tell me I have specific gifts I finally began talking to God about said gift last year, it was not until this year I began to embrace this loaned gift/talent. I submitted my first writing to a online magazine this month. I know it is only through the Holy Spirit that I can write something that His audience wants to read.
It is my desire to ALAWAYS go to Jesus before making any decisions, to ALWAYS ask the question “Show me the works you want me to do in my life Lord. I seek to ALWAYS ask just so I never get a puffed chest
“The thorny ground represents those who hear and accept the Good News, but all too quickly the message is crowded out by the cares of this life and the lure of wealth, so no crop is produced.” …. and I still struggle with the “cares of this life”
–
It’s review time at my job and after learning what my merit increase was I got upset. I felt that I was not valued at my job and I should have received more. After praying on how to bring this up to my manager, the Holy Spirit took me instead to a book I read by T.D. Jakes titled The Ten Commandments of Working in a Hostile Environment. My job is not hostile perse, however this book hits home with these Ten Commendments mainly the second commandment is what I am being blessed with this week. “Don’t Expect to be appreciated” T.D. Jakes says in his book Our workplace is not a place to be affirmed, if we go back to David, we will see he was affirmed at home not in his new work place. He was anointed before he ever got to the Kings palace. Here is the blessing “my job is the provison until the promise” Hot diggity Dawg!!
Laverne
======== Dee:
Does God intervene and bless our work lives? I believe he does and others see that “the fruit that God produces in our lives.” Do you pray about your work life regularly? I work at a Christian school, I am a preschool teacher, I always pray for my class and that our day be a blessing, sometimes, we as humans get busy in our day and forget to pray for everyone we work with, but they too are important and its so simple to just include everyone in the prayer, a few minutes can manifest wonderful blessing to all throughout the day. Do you think God blesses your work life? I believe he does. I believe that when I seek him “First” in the morning and rely on Him alone, my flows very well as opposed to being late, waking up too late, getting in a bad mood, that only sets you up for the enemy to steal you day and can lead to mayhem. And like Joseph, does God maybe bless those around you, even if they aren’t necessarily in relationship with God? I sure hope and pray that some of the goodness that others see maybe from a righteous walk that I am to seek, however it all comes from God and if others are in prayer mode as All of our staff should be since this is a Christian school and everyone actively prays, then the fruit should be rolling from everyones lives. Also, what verses or insights stand out to you in today’s readings? All verses were good, however it was nice to see that whatever Joseph was doing or whatever situation he was in, God was pleased with him and gave him favor in all that he did.
Dee
======= Pat:
Comment on Matthew 12:46-50 “The True Family of Jesus”.
It always bothered me that Jesus would reject or deny his earthly family because we know from the scripture that Jesus encouraged families to have respect for and hold tight to each other and that he loved his own family. Otherwise, why when he was on the cross would he ask John to take care of his mother? I read a commentary that put a different light on this scripture. It said that Jesus was constantly being hounded by mobs wanting to hear his word, needing healings or seeking his blessings. Even at night when Jesus should have been resting the crowds were there and would not give him time to himself. Jesus had no time either eat or sleep and his family was worried about him. They came as a family unit to try to get Jesus to pull away from the crowds and take better care of himself physically. Jesus knew that his ministry years would be few and he had much to do to fulfill the prophecy and the will of the Heavenly Father. He didn’t reject his family out of disrespect for them or because he didn’t love them, he rejected his family because he could not do what they were going to ask of him. Jesus had to refuse the wants of his earthly family at that time only because he was needed by his Heavenly Father to increase the size of the family that would reside with him eternally in the Heavenly Kingdom.
I don’t know where the commentator came up with this because neither Matthew nor Luke gives this additional information but it makes sense to me and it gave me new insight on the scripture. It is how a typical close family would react and it how I see my Savior reacting to their request. It helped me reconcile these verses with the other teachings and actions of Christ. It brought me peace, and that’s why I want to share it with you this morning.
God Bless!
Pat
======== John:
Thanks Pat for your insight. The brothers James and Jude did not become believers until later on, perhaps after the cross – so I always thought this was a type of intervention of some kind. Your take makes sense, especially since Mary was there and she knew Jesus’ calling and that He was the Son of God.
John
======= Luch:
I too appreciate the way you (Mike) continue to stimulate all of us ‘to love and good works’ through the ongoing interactive engagement with the scriptures.
Here’s a great quote from dallas willard on having an interactive relationship with God through His scriptures, His revelation to us.
Being close to God means communicating with him, and this communication is a two-way street—telling him what is on our hearts in prayer and hearing and understanding what he is saying to us. It is this second half of our conversation with God that is so important but can also be so difficult. How can you be sure God is speaking to you? The key is to focus not so much on individual actions and decisions as on building our personal relationship with our Creator. Hearing God is but one dimension of a richly interactive relationship, and obtaining guidance is but one facet of hearing God.
And i think much of that guidance comes to us as His written word gets ‘written’ in our hearts. AS matt 4:4 says, “People do not live by bread alone but by every word that comes out of the mouth of God.’
Luch
======= Jennifer
Joseph’s example compared to Jacob’s example. Joseph had all reason to be bitter and feel sorry for himself and really deny God, but at every opportunity or challenge he served God and by so doing walked his path with God. My prayer is that I looked to God and not worry about the world, and not get deceived by the evil one, but that I prepare my soil to recieves Gods seeds and then I reap a harvest 100x what was sown.
Jennifer
======= David:
To me, Joseph is a perfect example of a man who knows that God is writing his story and not himself. He is not worried because all he has to do is sit back and enjoy the ride. It also shows that depending on God is not easy, neither is resisting temptation, but it is doable and plausible. I thank God for this perfect example in the Bible. Jesus gave some parables in today’s readings that testifies to the difficulty of following the word of God. We smother God’s words by our rationalized thinking. Joseph’s advice to us would probably be to just do it!
David
======= Jeff:
Sometimes, I’m pleasantly surprised by the complementary themes in our OT and NT readings. Today is one of those days. In Genesis 40:8 and 41:16, Joseph explains that any wisdom he possesses is not from himself, but from God. This theme is also in our NT reading today in Jesus’ explanation of His parable of the sower. From MT 13:23, those who receive seed on the good soil (like Joseph for example) “hears the word and understands it, who indeed bears fruit and produces”.
I like the Proverbs reading today much more than David’s Psalm. In Proverbs we are instructed in the importance our Lord places in being humble. Contrast that with David’s attitude in his Psalm, which I find almost offensive. Doesn’t David seem opposite of humble? Yes, his prayer acknowledges God, but isn’t his attitude almost self-righteous? Almost telling God rather than seeking to listen to God?
Jeff
======= Bob:
Visions, dreams, revelations are a spiritual mystery that is touched upon in our Joseph story. A couple of years ago a person in our church was very sick and I took it upon myself to fast for 3 days. Three visions were given to me that I didn’t understand. I wasn’t sure what to do. I told some Christian men and to my surprise one of them realized one revelation was for him, an answer so to speak. I am still waiting for someone that will interpret the other two. The sick person still suffers and I am not sure if the time is right to approach. The story of Joseph and Pharaoh’s dreams are all the more real to me and shows me how we need to trust God for guidance, understanding and patience.
Bob
======= Jill:
He replied, “Because the knowledge of the secrets of the kingdom of heaven has been given to you, but not to them. 12 Whoever has will be given more, and they will have an abundance. Whoever does not have, even what they have will be taken from them. 13 This is why I speak to them in parables: This passage really excites me because I found it to be true! The more we read we gain more knowledge and can’t wait to keeping growing and learning every day!
My heart breaks in Joseph story when he gets thrown in prison for his innocence yet God favor was on him. Although that didn’t mean instant release! Oh why do trials feel like eternity? But all in Gods timing as we see in Joseph story does he bring about redemption! Hold on to his promises even if it doesn’t happen overnight!
Jill
======= Karen:
I am currently in a rehabilitation facility for people with brain injuries, and these words verified my realization that my relationship with and blessings from God carry over to fellow residents. I have noticed behavioral and physical improvements/changes that can only be credited to God. I pray for all the residents daily. I myself have come so far,. Restore, my facility, is being used by God and staffed with talented experienced, knowledgable, and caring staff. I take no credit for myself, I am being used by God as a conduit for sharing peace and restoration.
Karen
======= Jay:
This blog and reading today, about Joseph and Potiphar is so timely. Every job I have had, within the year or two that I am there, the leadership changes. It usually is the same situation, I get hired on the job, the first year is wonderful and then the leadership changes and situation often turns bad, with back stabbing, politics, and reorganizations. I never get fired, but the conditions get so bad that I usually leave. Recently we have a big leadership change that the organization has ever seen. I was just telling my wife and asking God today, why I always get put in these situations that are out of my control and what is God trying to show me for the last 12 years. I told my wife, I just don’t have it in me to do this again. The last two situations have made me very frustrated, anxious and to the point I have had to obtain counseling. So I cannot really say that God blesses my work life. However, I always learn something new, am humbled and find another job, nay that is the blessing in itself. I ask if you pray for me today as I go through another round of big changes. I have total faith that God will make this work for my good, even if it does not turn out the way I like. I plan to pray for God’s intervention through this time that he blesses me and to also bless the folks that I work with as we go in for this bumpy ride.
Jay
======= Judie:
This is what you wrote today about being in your 8th year of reading through the Bible: “The repetition is not repetitive, but really allows for insights to soak in and to be revealed. I can’t quite say that I feel like I have an abundance of knowledge… But – I know that I am on that road by reading the Bible each day and I so look forward to gaining more and more knowledge of God’s story as I go. And – to grow deeper into relationship with God and Jesus and the Holy Spirit. So – the knowledge itself is great, but the relationship and peace and grace that comes from the Trinity – even better.”
I love listening to the comments from the audio Bible read by Tom Dooley before he reads the day’s scripture, and your comments from the blog. When I have time, I go to some of the links you provide to get a broader understanding of something.
I absolutely agree. I want so much to deepen my relationship with God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit. I too look forward to gaining more knowledge and understanding of the Bible as I read through the chapters.
Thanks again for this ministry.
Judie
======= Donna:
I go to church with Laura Story’s aunt, Cheryl Story. It is neat to know someone who is related to a well known person as Laura is known in Christian music. Her “Mighty to Save” is a classic now. I have seen the play about Joseph and his coat of many colors – just wonderful. Joseph was such a man of integrity and God used him for His glory.
Donna
======= Mary:
In Genesis we read the chief cup bearer and chief baker remind me of the 2 thieves who were beside Jesus on the cross. One was spared and given eternal life and the other was not due to his unbelief. Perhaps the cup bearer was repentant and the baker unrepentant, much like the 2 thieves on the cross beside Jesus.
The biggest challenge today is to admit we are all sinners, to seek our Lord’s forgiveness and Jesus is the one who saves us by offering the forgiveness of our sins. When we admit this, something happens miraculously… we are set free from our imprisonment… it’s believable until you actually experience it. It’s a joy and peace that truly surpasses our understanding. If you’ve never done this, go to a private place by yourself a pray to Jesus to forgive you of your sins…everything and ask for his grace to set you free from your bondage and fill you with is spirit. Surrounded yourself with other Christians, go to church and continue to walk with the Lord Jesus, pray at all times, giving thanks to him who saved you.
Mary
======= Jones:
I work in a ministry and I know that God blessed me by getting me the job, even when I know I didn’t deserve it. The spirit convicts me when I am not walking in God’s will. So I am learning to listen more to the spirit. Pray for me that temptation will not overtake me.
Jones
======= Mitch:
God’s blessing of others because of a believer? Think it is more complex than that as in Joseph’s case. Potiphar was blessed, so he had regard for Joseph. After wife told Potiphar her made up story – he burned with anger. But at who? I think it was at wife. He should have had Joseph killed for the alleged crime. Yet he had him imprisoned.
In prison he met pharaoh’s servants who (I think) were there under suspicion of trying to poison pharaoh. Had to be imprisoned to meet them, and interpreted their dreams. If cupbearer had gotten him out immediately, Joseph goes back to Potiphar. Instead two years later pharaoh had the dream before onset of seven years of plenty.
While spending two more years in jail – Joseph has his pride reduced (notice mentions God only once to pharaoh’s servants) and timing is dialed in. God’s work is a lot more complex than we can understand.
Is the sower of the seed parable about what people decide about the gospel and become believers or not? Or is it about stages in a believer’s life? Or both? I tend to think the former. But it is a good topic for debate.
Mitch
======= Debbie:
Thank you, Mike, for keeping at this for decades! I’ve begun this discipline numerous times but have never been able to be consistent at all. So far, I’ve kept up—for 19 days! I don’t want to be one who can’t see or hear and therefore cannot turn and be healed.
Thank you, too, for your honesty and humility. Thank you for the artwork and funny pictures. Bless you!
Debbie
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