Text: Genesis 37:12-17
This devotion is a summary of point one of a sermon I preached on Sunday, January 19th.
In Genesis 37, we see Joseph, the beloved son of Jacob, obediently seeking his brothers. Despite the possible dangers, he remains faithful to his father’s command and is willing to journey to a distant land, demonstrating his trust in his father’s will. Meanwhile, his brothers have strayed far from their father, driven by jealousy and hate. This contrast teaches us a valuable lesson about our relationship with God and the importance of staying close to Him.
Joseph’s decision to travel to Shechem, and then to Dothan, was not an easy one because of the risk. However, it was easy when considered as a matter of obedience. He was instructed and so he obeyed. He did not know where his brothers were, and the distance of 60 miles would have been a dangerous journey. Yet, he submitted to his father’s will without question, saying, “Here am I” (verse 13). This response echoes the willingness of biblical figures like Samuel and Isaiah to hear and obey God’s call. (Cf. 1 Samuel 3:4, 9 – “Here am I…Speak, Lord…”; Isaiah 6:8 – “Here am I; send me.”; Luke 22:42 – “Nevertheless not my will, but thine, be done.”; Ezekiel 22:30 – Will you stand in the gap?)
When we stay close to God, He leads us and guides us, even when the road is uncertain. Joseph’s obedience is a powerful example of how following God’s will brings peace and purpose to our lives, no matter the challenges. We, too, are called to remain close to God so that we can hear His voice clearly, just as Joseph did.
Joseph obeyed his father’s will, even when it led him into a dangerous and unknown situation. Likewise, we are called to remain obedient to God’s commands, trusting that when we are in His will, we can find peace. As we walk closely with God, we are better able to hear His voice and know His direction for our lives. Stay close enough to God to hear His instructions, and be ready to follow them, no matter the challenges that may come.
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