The name "Genesis" comes from a Greek word meaning "beginning." And this is a book of beginnings because it talks about the beginning of the universe, the beginning of the human race, and the beginning of the people of Israel.
The first part of Genesis (1-11) tells about creation and the human race up to the time of Abraham. Everything God created was good, but the first two human beings, Adam and Eve, disobeyed him and brought evil into the world. People became so sinful that God decided to send a flood to kill everyone except a man named Noah and his family. They worshiped God, and so God told them to build a large boat to save themselves and a few of each kind of animals and birds. After the flood, people again spread out over the earth, and most of them stopped worshiping God.
The rest of the book of Genesis (12-50 contains the story of Abram and his family. God chose them to be the beginning of his own special people. God also changed Abram's name to Abraham and the name of Abram's wife Sarai to Sarah. Abraham and his wife Sarah had no children, but God promised that they would have a child and that their descendants would someday have their own land and be a blessing for all nations.
Abraham and Sarah moved to Canaan, the land that God had promised to give their descendants. Abraham and Sarah had a son, Isaac when they were very old. Isaac later had two sons, Jacob and Esau. As the book concludes, Jacob's twelve sons and their families are living in Egypt. One of these brothers, Joseph, had become the governor of Egypt. But Joseph knew that God would someday keep his promise to his people.
Before Joseph died, he told his brothers, "I won't live much longer. But God will take care of you and lead you out of Egypt to the land he promised Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob." (50.24)
Here are 29 Lessons from The Book of Genesis
Does God Still Works in the World?
Does God Still Works in the World?
1 # Short Commentary & Lesson Genesis 1.24-31
One of the most important themes of Genesis is God's love for humans and his involvement in our lives. God created the universe and all life, and he was pleased with his work. He gave the people the responsibility to take care of his creation.
God didn't just randomly create us - He made us in his image. That means he gave us the ability to love, think, feel, and choose. We are valuable to God, and he wants us to experience the joy and peace of knowing and doing his will.
We may wonder why humans are capable of hatred, violence, selfishness, and deceit since we have been created to be good. This happens because of sin.
We aren't perfect, but God has also given us the ability to be healed and to overcome sin.
No Longer Lonely
2 # Short Commentary & Lesson Genesis 2.18, 24
The only thing in God's original creation said to be "not good" was the man without a partner. So God made the woman. The way God created her, using part of the man, shows that man and woman belong together.
We may think that the joining of a man and a woman in marriage was created by humans, but it was really God who established the marriage relationship.
Three elements are important in a biblically based marriage:
- A man and a woman leave their parents and commit themselves exclusively to each other.
- The man and woman are joined together in marriage, agreeing to love, help, and take responsibility for each other.
- The husband and wife become like one person. Part of this oneness involves the sexual union.
- A man and a woman leave their parents and commit themselves exclusively to each other.
- The man and woman are joined together in marriage, agreeing to love, help, and take responsibility for each other.
- The husband and wife become like one person. Part of this oneness involves the sexual union.
The First Promise of a Savior
3 # Short Commentary & Lesson (Genesis 3.14, 15)
God had told Adam and Eve that they would die if they ate the forbidden fruit. Their sin separated them from God, the source of all life. Without God, a person is "dead" in a spiritual way.
Although Adam and Eve disobeyed God, he still cared for them. He promised that a Savior would come and destroy Satan's power over them (a head wound). The Savior himself would also be wounded ("on the heel").
God kept his promise by sending his Son Jesus (John 3.16). By dying for our sins, Jesus Destroyed Satan's power over us.
The Man Who Never Died
4 # Short Commentary & Lesson (Genesis 5.21-24)
God's promise to Adam and Eve in (3.15) must have seemed painfully long in coming. Their unfaithfulness to God was followed by the murder of Abel (4.8), and things went from bad to worse (4.23).
Eve may have hoped their son Seth would be the Promised One, but the promise of a Savior would be fulfilled for many years.
We see this in (5.24) when God took Enoch directly to heaven because Enoch has great faith in God. while other people lived for themselves, Enoch lived for God.
Enoch's example shows us that whenever we draw near to God, he draws near to us. And a close friendship with God is the next best thing to heaven.
God Keeps His Promises
5 # Short Commentary & Lesson Genesis 6.17, 18
God promised Noah that if he would that if he would obey and trust him, God would keep Noah and his family safe in the boat. God did not say he would take Noah out of the flood, but he did promise to bring Noah safely through it.
At times, we feel as though we are drowning in a flood of troubles. Financial problems weigh us down. Personal relationships are battered by powerful, frightening waves. Problems seem to pour in faster than we can bail them out.
During these times, remember God's word to us. He promises that if we obey and trust him, he won't let us drown.
Rainbows in the Sky
6 # Short Commentary & Lesson Genesis 9.8-17
The rainbow is a sign of God's promise that he will never again destroy the world by a flood. The next time you see a rainbow in the sky, let it remind you of God's mercy. Mercy means that God does not always give us the punishment we deserve.
Let the rainbow also remind you of God's grace - the favor he gives us, even though we have not earned it.
Why Was the Tower of Babel Bad?
Let the rainbow also remind you of God's grace - the favor he gives us, even though we have not earned it.
Why Was the Tower of Babel Bad?
7 # Short Commentary & Lesson Genesis 11.3-4
The people wanted to build a tower that would reach the sky. The problem with their wanting to do this was that they were building it as a tribute to themselves, not to God. They thought the tower would serve as a way to keep their people together.
Many people make the same mistake today. They want everyone to notice the "tower" they are building to honor themselves. Their tower may be a big house, a big bank account, a big name in town, or anything that takes first place in their lives, other than God. We are free to use God's gifts, but they should not lead us to think we are greater than God.
Is it Worth it To Trust God?
The people wanted to build a tower that would reach the sky. The problem with their wanting to do this was that they were building it as a tribute to themselves, not to God. They thought the tower would serve as a way to keep their people together.
Many people make the same mistake today. They want everyone to notice the "tower" they are building to honor themselves. Their tower may be a big house, a big bank account, a big name in town, or anything that takes first place in their lives, other than God. We are free to use God's gifts, but they should not lead us to think we are greater than God.
Is it Worth it To Trust God?
8 # Short Commentary & Lesson Genesis 12.1-3
God had a plan for Abram, which included three promises that are mentioned many times throughout the Old Testament.
- The first promise God made to Abram was that he would give Abram land. This land was Canan, which includes the Modern-day nation of Israel.
- Second, God promised Abram descendants. Abram and his wife Sarai were both old and had no children yet. Still, God promised that their children were to become a great nation.
- Third God promised to bless Abram and make him a blessing to the world.
These are some large promises to make, and Abram could have chosen to ignore God. But, because of his great faith in God, Abram believed God and did what he was instructed to do.
Firm Faith in the Midst of Evil
God had a plan for Abram, which included three promises that are mentioned many times throughout the Old Testament.
- The first promise God made to Abram was that he would give Abram land. This land was Canan, which includes the Modern-day nation of Israel.
- Second, God promised Abram descendants. Abram and his wife Sarai were both old and had no children yet. Still, God promised that their children were to become a great nation.
- Third God promised to bless Abram and make him a blessing to the world.
These are some large promises to make, and Abram could have chosen to ignore God. But, because of his great faith in God, Abram believed God and did what he was instructed to do.
Firm Faith in the Midst of Evil
9 # Short Commentary & Lesson (Genesis 13.5-13)
Lot had been given the opportunity to pick any area of his uncle's land for his family to settle. He knew that there was water and green land in the Jordan Valley, which meant that valley would be the ideal place for him to take his family.
If Lot had chosen another area, he probably would have had to work harder for food and to raise his animals. It is hard to say whether or not Lot was being greedy when he made his decision. Lot may have realized that some of the cities in the Jordan Valley were full of evil people.
God wants all of us to make a difference in other people's lives. This is especially true in cases where evil exists. It is hard to be near tempting situations, but if we can keep our faith strong, then we can help others see God's goodness.
God Was Pleased
Lot had been given the opportunity to pick any area of his uncle's land for his family to settle. He knew that there was water and green land in the Jordan Valley, which meant that valley would be the ideal place for him to take his family.
If Lot had chosen another area, he probably would have had to work harder for food and to raise his animals. It is hard to say whether or not Lot was being greedy when he made his decision. Lot may have realized that some of the cities in the Jordan Valley were full of evil people.
God wants all of us to make a difference in other people's lives. This is especially true in cases where evil exists. It is hard to be near tempting situations, but if we can keep our faith strong, then we can help others see God's goodness.
God Was Pleased
10 # Short Commentary & Lesson Genesis 15.1-6
This is one of the key passages in the Bible because it shows that God was pleased by Abram's faith. Abram trusted God would keep his word. Yes, Abram's good deeds made God happy, but he was especially pleased because Abram had faith.
God is happy that we go to church, read our Bibles, pray, or do good deeds. But he is especially pleased when we believe in him when we accept God completely even though we may not understand his motives.
Our relationship with God is based on our faith in him, and that he will do what he has promised, We don't do good works to establish a relationship with God. We do good things because of our relationship with him.
This is one of the key passages in the Bible because it shows that God was pleased by Abram's faith. Abram trusted God would keep his word. Yes, Abram's good deeds made God happy, but he was especially pleased because Abram had faith.
God is happy that we go to church, read our Bibles, pray, or do good deeds. But he is especially pleased when we believe in him when we accept God completely even though we may not understand his motives.
Our relationship with God is based on our faith in him, and that he will do what he has promised, We don't do good works to establish a relationship with God. We do good things because of our relationship with him.
Picture of a Promise
Picture of a Promise
11 # Short Commentary & Lesson Genesis 15.7-21
When someone makes a promise, it is up to the recipient of that promise to believe that it will be kept. God had made three amazing promises to Abram. So far, there was no physical proof that those promises would be kept, so Abram asked for proof.
When Abram fell into a deep sleep, the LORD made his promise to Abram again. Abram accepted God's promise, and God was very pleased with Abram's faith.
God does not get angry when we ask him to help us understand his word. If we are not sure what God wants us to do, then we can ask him. God will continue to show us his promises for our lives as long as we have faith that he will keep his word.
What's in a Name?
When someone makes a promise, it is up to the recipient of that promise to believe that it will be kept. God had made three amazing promises to Abram. So far, there was no physical proof that those promises would be kept, so Abram asked for proof.
When Abram fell into a deep sleep, the LORD made his promise to Abram again. Abram accepted God's promise, and God was very pleased with Abram's faith.
God does not get angry when we ask him to help us understand his word. If we are not sure what God wants us to do, then we can ask him. God will continue to show us his promises for our lives as long as we have faith that he will keep his word.
What's in a Name?
12 # Short Commentary & Lesson Genesis 17.1-19
In Genesis 12, God first promised that Abram's descendants would become a great nation. Many years had passed, and Abram's only son was Ishmael, who was Hagar's son - and Abram was almost a hundred years old!
In Genesis 17, God reaffirmed his promise to Abram by changing his name to Abraham ("father of a multitude"). He also changed Sarai's name to Sarah ("Princess") because Sarah was going to have a son with Abraham. This meant that Ishmael was not the promised son Abraham thought he was.
This promise of another son went beyond all that Abraham could have imagined. And God makes promises like these to us. We cannot always rationalize God's plan for us.
Why Did God Inform Abraham?
In Genesis 12, God first promised that Abram's descendants would become a great nation. Many years had passed, and Abram's only son was Ishmael, who was Hagar's son - and Abram was almost a hundred years old!
In Genesis 17, God reaffirmed his promise to Abram by changing his name to Abraham ("father of a multitude"). He also changed Sarai's name to Sarah ("Princess") because Sarah was going to have a son with Abraham. This meant that Ishmael was not the promised son Abraham thought he was.
This promise of another son went beyond all that Abraham could have imagined. And God makes promises like these to us. We cannot always rationalize God's plan for us.
Why Did God Inform Abraham?
13 # Short Commentary & Lesson Genesis 18.16-33
13 # Short Commentary & Lesson Genesis 18.16-33
God could have carried out his plans concerning Sodom and Gomorrah without mentioning them to Abraham. But he did tell Abraham of the coming destruction.
Abraham was God's friend. Those who live close to God will find he often gives them insights and knowledge of his plans.
God knew that Abraham would use the results of this situation to teach his servants and his future children about God's ways.
God does not want to destroy people. And Abraham believed in God's goodness.His requests to God to save faithful people is a wonderful example of caring for others.
God could have carried out his plans concerning Sodom and Gomorrah without mentioning them to Abraham. But he did tell Abraham of the coming destruction.
Abraham was God's friend. Those who live close to God will find he often gives them insights and knowledge of his plans.
God knew that Abraham would use the results of this situation to teach his servants and his future children about God's ways.
God does not want to destroy people. And Abraham believed in God's goodness.His requests to God to save faithful people is a wonderful example of caring for others.
Do You Laugh at God?
Do You Laugh at God?
14 # Short Commentary & Lesson Genesis 21.1-7
We would probably be quick to doubt if we were told what Sarah had been told. It simply does not seem possible to bear a child at the age of ninety!
But God kept his promise to Abraham and Sarah, and Isaac (meaning "laughter") was a reminder of how Sarah had laughed at the idea of having a child. Now Sarah was laughing with joy.
It is easy for us to doubt when situations appear impossible. Some things are too far beyond our understanding, but God is not to be limited. The next time we doubt God, we can remember what he did for Sarah.
We would probably be quick to doubt if we were told what Sarah had been told. It simply does not seem possible to bear a child at the age of ninety!
But God kept his promise to Abraham and Sarah, and Isaac (meaning "laughter") was a reminder of how Sarah had laughed at the idea of having a child. Now Sarah was laughing with joy.
It is easy for us to doubt when situations appear impossible. Some things are too far beyond our understanding, but God is not to be limited. The next time we doubt God, we can remember what he did for Sarah.
God Hears Our Cries
God Hears Our Cries
15 # Short Commentary & Lesson Genesis 21.11-21
Although Abraham was upset over Sarah's Desire to send Hagar and Ishmael away, he obeyed God. The LORD reminded Abraham about his promise to make Ishmael the father of a great nation. Still, that did not mean it would be easy for Ishmael. He and Hagar nearly died of thirst in the desert, but God heard their cries and provided water for them,
We experience dry places in our lives that make us desperate. Sometimes the pain is so great that it doesn't seem possible that it will ever end. We wonder where God is and why he doesn't help us. But God is always there. When all hope is gone and we feel we can't go on, God hears our cries.
Life Out of Death
Although Abraham was upset over Sarah's Desire to send Hagar and Ishmael away, he obeyed God. The LORD reminded Abraham about his promise to make Ishmael the father of a great nation. Still, that did not mean it would be easy for Ishmael. He and Hagar nearly died of thirst in the desert, but God heard their cries and provided water for them,
We experience dry places in our lives that make us desperate. Sometimes the pain is so great that it doesn't seem possible that it will ever end. We wonder where God is and why he doesn't help us. But God is always there. When all hope is gone and we feel we can't go on, God hears our cries.
Life Out of Death
16 # Short Commentary & Lesson Genesis 22.6-12
God was testing Abraham to see if he still loved God. Maybe now that Abraham had his promised son, he would love the gift more than the one who gave the gift to him.
After everything Abraham had been through, he knew that he had to obey God. Abraham knew that God gives his best to those who are willing to give him their best.
Just as Abraham was about to plunge the knife into Isaac, the angel of the LORD stopped him. Abraham had shown God that his faith was still in God. Everything that Abraham had belonged to God... Even Isaac.
Consider the person in your life who is your most treasured gift. Maybe it is a child, like Isaac, or a dear friend, a family member, or a spouse.
How would you feel if God asked you to give up this gift? Have you thanked God for giving you this gift?
Beyond the Call of Duty
God was testing Abraham to see if he still loved God. Maybe now that Abraham had his promised son, he would love the gift more than the one who gave the gift to him.
After everything Abraham had been through, he knew that he had to obey God. Abraham knew that God gives his best to those who are willing to give him their best.
Just as Abraham was about to plunge the knife into Isaac, the angel of the LORD stopped him. Abraham had shown God that his faith was still in God. Everything that Abraham had belonged to God... Even Isaac.
Consider the person in your life who is your most treasured gift. Maybe it is a child, like Isaac, or a dear friend, a family member, or a spouse.
How would you feel if God asked you to give up this gift? Have you thanked God for giving you this gift?
Beyond the Call of Duty
17 # Short Commentary & Lesson Genesis 24.1-21,26
How would Abraham's servant know which woman was right for Isaac? Should he choose the most beautiful woman he could find? the smartest? The richest? Instead of deciding for himself, Abraham's servant prayed for guidance from God.
It was common courtesy for a person to give a weary traveler a drink of water. For Rebekah to offer water to the camels also was truly an act of unselfishness, not to mention a lot of work. The water had to be drawn from the well, poured into heavy pots, and carried to the animals. And, each camel could drink twenty-five to thirty gallons of water!
Although Rebekah was beautiful and unmarried, performing this work of watering the camels is what convinced Abrahan's servant that this was the woman God had chosen for Isaac. Are we willing to do more than is expected of us?
Faith Overcomes Fear
How would Abraham's servant know which woman was right for Isaac? Should he choose the most beautiful woman he could find? the smartest? The richest? Instead of deciding for himself, Abraham's servant prayed for guidance from God.
It was common courtesy for a person to give a weary traveler a drink of water. For Rebekah to offer water to the camels also was truly an act of unselfishness, not to mention a lot of work. The water had to be drawn from the well, poured into heavy pots, and carried to the animals. And, each camel could drink twenty-five to thirty gallons of water!
Although Rebekah was beautiful and unmarried, performing this work of watering the camels is what convinced Abrahan's servant that this was the woman God had chosen for Isaac. Are we willing to do more than is expected of us?
Faith Overcomes Fear
18 # Short Commentary & Lesson Genesis 26.1-11
Because Rebekah was so beautiful, Isaac worried that the men of Gerar might kill him to get her. Like his father Abraham, Isaac lied and told the Philistines that his wife was his sister.
God had promised to take care of Isaac and his family, but Isaac was afraid. Fear and mistrust often lead to lies and divisions among family members and friends. Fear also pulls us away from God's plan for our lives. But God gives us second, and third, and fourth chances.
Deception Always Has a Price
Because Rebekah was so beautiful, Isaac worried that the men of Gerar might kill him to get her. Like his father Abraham, Isaac lied and told the Philistines that his wife was his sister.
God had promised to take care of Isaac and his family, but Isaac was afraid. Fear and mistrust often lead to lies and divisions among family members and friends. Fear also pulls us away from God's plan for our lives. But God gives us second, and third, and fourth chances.
Deception Always Has a Price
19 # Short Commentary & Lesson Genesis 27.42-45
Rebekah thought she was doing the right thing by sending Jacob away so he and Esau would not harm each other, Little did Rebekah know that sending Jacob away for "a while" would turn out to be twenty years!
Nor did she know that she would never see him again; Rebekah died before Jacob returned, Imagine how much happier their family could have been if they had trusted God to follow through with his plan.
We are often impatient and think that we need to help God along. True, we shouldn't simply sit around waiting for God to do this thing. We do need to be careful about pushing and doing what we think is God's will. Many times God surprises us in showing us what he has planned. Let's keep our eyes and minds open to God's possibilities.
God the Seeker
Rebekah thought she was doing the right thing by sending Jacob away so he and Esau would not harm each other, Little did Rebekah know that sending Jacob away for "a while" would turn out to be twenty years!
Nor did she know that she would never see him again; Rebekah died before Jacob returned, Imagine how much happier their family could have been if they had trusted God to follow through with his plan.
We are often impatient and think that we need to help God along. True, we shouldn't simply sit around waiting for God to do this thing. We do need to be careful about pushing and doing what we think is God's will. Many times God surprises us in showing us what he has planned. Let's keep our eyes and minds open to God's possibilities.
God the Seeker
20 # Short Commentary & Lesson Genesis 28.10-22
As Jacob slept, God spoke to him in a dream. There's no evidence that Jacob had not been looking for God; God initiated his contact with Jacob.
We tend to think that we're the ones who search for God, but in reality, he seeks us first. He draws us to him by speaking to our hearts and minds.
In Jacob's dream, God gave him a promise that he would be blessed like Abraham and Isaac were. God also promised to watch over Jacob and to protect him. Finally, he promised to bring Jacob back to his homeland. Although twenty years passed before Jacob returned, he did come back.
As we grow in our awareness of God's constant presence, we will walk more firmly on the path God has set before us. We may fail to understand or obey God, but the One who walks beside us will never fail.
Time To Move
As Jacob slept, God spoke to him in a dream. There's no evidence that Jacob had not been looking for God; God initiated his contact with Jacob.
We tend to think that we're the ones who search for God, but in reality, he seeks us first. He draws us to him by speaking to our hearts and minds.
In Jacob's dream, God gave him a promise that he would be blessed like Abraham and Isaac were. God also promised to watch over Jacob and to protect him. Finally, he promised to bring Jacob back to his homeland. Although twenty years passed before Jacob returned, he did come back.
As we grow in our awareness of God's constant presence, we will walk more firmly on the path God has set before us. We may fail to understand or obey God, but the One who walks beside us will never fail.
Time To Move
21 # Short Commentary & Lesson Genesis 31.1-16
How can we know when it is time to move or make a change in our lives? Jacob's situation gives us a few hints. First, we have the outward signs: Laban's sons' jealousy, Laban's changed attitude, and Jacob's financial freedom. All these factors indicated that it may be time to move on.
Second, we read about the inward signs: God spoke to Jacob and told him to move. Sometimes we are not sure whether we have heard from God, or if we simply want to follow our own desires. In these times, the third confirmation may help the support of family or friends. Jacob wisely discussed the potential move with his wives before taking any action. If those closest to us can't support our plans, maybe we should slow down and rethink our ideas.
Footsteps from the Past
How can we know when it is time to move or make a change in our lives? Jacob's situation gives us a few hints. First, we have the outward signs: Laban's sons' jealousy, Laban's changed attitude, and Jacob's financial freedom. All these factors indicated that it may be time to move on.
Second, we read about the inward signs: God spoke to Jacob and told him to move. Sometimes we are not sure whether we have heard from God, or if we simply want to follow our own desires. In these times, the third confirmation may help the support of family or friends. Jacob wisely discussed the potential move with his wives before taking any action. If those closest to us can't support our plans, maybe we should slow down and rethink our ideas.
Footsteps from the Past
22 # Short Commentary & Lesson Genesis 32.1-12
The confrontation with Laban must have seemed like child's play compared to what Jacob expected from his brother, Esau. After all, the last time Jacob had seen or heard anything from Esau, he had threatened to kill him. Now, Esau was rapidly approaching along with 400 men - not a good sign.
Imagine living with this kind of fear for more than twenty years. Is there some hurt or mistake in your past that still causes you to cringe with fear? The way to break through that fear is by admitting the hurt or mistake to God and by remembering what he has promised us. In Jacob's prayer, he remembered that God promised he would be successful. God can help us to break through our fears and trust him to take care of our needs.
Joseph Resists Sexual Seduction
The confrontation with Laban must have seemed like child's play compared to what Jacob expected from his brother, Esau. After all, the last time Jacob had seen or heard anything from Esau, he had threatened to kill him. Now, Esau was rapidly approaching along with 400 men - not a good sign.
Imagine living with this kind of fear for more than twenty years. Is there some hurt or mistake in your past that still causes you to cringe with fear? The way to break through that fear is by admitting the hurt or mistake to God and by remembering what he has promised us. In Jacob's prayer, he remembered that God promised he would be successful. God can help us to break through our fears and trust him to take care of our needs.
Joseph Resists Sexual Seduction
23 # Short Commentary & Lesson Genesis 39.1-9
Although he was the head of Potiphar's house, Joseph was still a servant. When Potiphar's wife attempted to talk Joseph into having sex with her, it was more of a command than an invitation. For a servant to disobey the wishes of his master's wife was unheard of. Still, Joseph resisted her desires.
In our struggle against evil, there are times to stand up and fight back. At other times, the smartest action we can take is to get away from the temptation. We don't know for certain where Joseph was going when he ran away from Potiphar's wife. But Joseph knew the pressure was too great for him to stay there.
How can we know whether to fight or flee? We all have our weak points. What one person may be able to stand might cause another person to sin. If we are honest with ourselves, we know when it is time to run.
From Prison to the Palace
Although he was the head of Potiphar's house, Joseph was still a servant. When Potiphar's wife attempted to talk Joseph into having sex with her, it was more of a command than an invitation. For a servant to disobey the wishes of his master's wife was unheard of. Still, Joseph resisted her desires.
In our struggle against evil, there are times to stand up and fight back. At other times, the smartest action we can take is to get away from the temptation. We don't know for certain where Joseph was going when he ran away from Potiphar's wife. But Joseph knew the pressure was too great for him to stay there.
How can we know whether to fight or flee? We all have our weak points. What one person may be able to stand might cause another person to sin. If we are honest with ourselves, we know when it is time to run.
From Prison to the Palace
24 # Short Commentary & Lesson Genesis 41.25-36
In explaining the king's dreams, Joseph gave the king the good news and the bad news. Joseph didn't simply tell the king the meaning of his dreams, though. He gave the king good advice and a plan.
Many people are able to see the problems but do not offer workable solutions. Joseph showed that he trusted God to do what he had promised him. the king recognized that God was giving Joseph wisdom, so he made Joseph the second most powerful person in Egypt.
Joseph's promotion came suddenly, and possibly when he least expected it. It is easy for us to think of Joseph as an "overnight success." We tend to forget, however, that God was training Joseph through thirteen years of hardship.
When the time came for Joseph to move to the top, he was prepared. He had learned how to trust God through good times and bad, He had also learned how to be sensitive to the needs of others.
In explaining the king's dreams, Joseph gave the king the good news and the bad news. Joseph didn't simply tell the king the meaning of his dreams, though. He gave the king good advice and a plan.
Many people are able to see the problems but do not offer workable solutions. Joseph showed that he trusted God to do what he had promised him. the king recognized that God was giving Joseph wisdom, so he made Joseph the second most powerful person in Egypt.
Joseph's promotion came suddenly, and possibly when he least expected it. It is easy for us to think of Joseph as an "overnight success." We tend to forget, however, that God was training Joseph through thirteen years of hardship.
When the time came for Joseph to move to the top, he was prepared. He had learned how to trust God through good times and bad, He had also learned how to be sensitive to the needs of others.
Bad Things Happen to God's people, Too
Bad Things Happen to God's people, Too
25 # Short Commentary & Lesson Genesis 43.1-2
Jacob and his family were not sheltered from the effects of the famine. Their good supply, like that of all their neighbors, ran dangerously low. We are also subjected to natural disasters and other problems. Just because we believe in God doesn't mean we will never be hurt again.
God rarely removes us from the natural calamities that come to both believers and unbelievers. These circumstances are times for us to show the world that we trust God, even when times are tough.
God used the famine to cause Jacob's family to move to Egypt. In doing so, he was getting ready to fulfill another part of the promise he made many years before to Abraham.
A Promise Is Renewed
Jacob and his family were not sheltered from the effects of the famine. Their good supply, like that of all their neighbors, ran dangerously low. We are also subjected to natural disasters and other problems. Just because we believe in God doesn't mean we will never be hurt again.
God rarely removes us from the natural calamities that come to both believers and unbelievers. These circumstances are times for us to show the world that we trust God, even when times are tough.
God used the famine to cause Jacob's family to move to Egypt. In doing so, he was getting ready to fulfill another part of the promise he made many years before to Abraham.
A Promise Is Renewed
26 # Short Commentary & Lesson Genesis 46.1-4
Jacob must have been a little hesitant about going to Egypt. It was a long journey from Canan, and he was not a young man. But Jacob's love for his son was greater than his fear, so he went to Egypt. Perhaps Jacob was even concerned that he may die in Egypt, far away from the land God had promised to him.
But God was going to keep his promise. Since Jacob had been faithful to him, God reminded him of the promise and assure Jacob that it would be fulfilled.
We may not have the need to make a difficult journey in our old age but we do face many problems and difficult situations. It is during these times that God may seem far away, and trusting that God will see us through these times is very difficult.
Food Forever
Jacob must have been a little hesitant about going to Egypt. It was a long journey from Canan, and he was not a young man. But Jacob's love for his son was greater than his fear, so he went to Egypt. Perhaps Jacob was even concerned that he may die in Egypt, far away from the land God had promised to him.
But God was going to keep his promise. Since Jacob had been faithful to him, God reminded him of the promise and assure Jacob that it would be fulfilled.
We may not have the need to make a difficult journey in our old age but we do face many problems and difficult situations. It is during these times that God may seem far away, and trusting that God will see us through these times is very difficult.
Food Forever
27 # Short Commentary & Lesson Genesis 47.13-26
Imagine what it would be like to be so desperate for food that you would offer to become a slave in exchange for food. That's exactly what the Egyptians did when famine struck their land. They ran out of all their resources - their money, their possessions, everything they had. This means they had nothing to offer in exchange for food, except themselves.
Do we cling too tightly to the material things, forgetting what it is that truly sustains us? Material things of this world will one day disappear. Only God is eternal. When we cling to him, we are fed in ways beyond any food on earth.
Mixed Blessings
Imagine what it would be like to be so desperate for food that you would offer to become a slave in exchange for food. That's exactly what the Egyptians did when famine struck their land. They ran out of all their resources - their money, their possessions, everything they had. This means they had nothing to offer in exchange for food, except themselves.
Do we cling too tightly to the material things, forgetting what it is that truly sustains us? Material things of this world will one day disappear. Only God is eternal. When we cling to him, we are fed in ways beyond any food on earth.
Mixed Blessings
28 # Short Commentary & Lesson Genesis 49.1-7
The final blessings Jacob gave to his sons were intended to be fulfilled through their families in the future. Many of the predictions Jacob made about his sons related to how the men had lived in the past.
For example, Reuben, the oldest son, should have received the largest portion of the family inheritance. Since Reuben had slept with Jacob's wife many years ago, Jacob didn't give him this honor.
Similarly, the families of Simeon and Levi were to be scattered (thus reduced in power) because of their cruel actions to the people of Shchem.
Although our past sinful actions and attitudes can be forgiven, often there are still consequences we must face. This doesn't mean God has turned his back on us. It means that we must realize we have to be responsible for our actions.
The final blessings Jacob gave to his sons were intended to be fulfilled through their families in the future. Many of the predictions Jacob made about his sons related to how the men had lived in the past.
For example, Reuben, the oldest son, should have received the largest portion of the family inheritance. Since Reuben had slept with Jacob's wife many years ago, Jacob didn't give him this honor.
Similarly, the families of Simeon and Levi were to be scattered (thus reduced in power) because of their cruel actions to the people of Shchem.
Although our past sinful actions and attitudes can be forgiven, often there are still consequences we must face. This doesn't mean God has turned his back on us. It means that we must realize we have to be responsible for our actions.
No Short Cuts
No Short Cuts
29 # Short Commentary & Lesson Genesis 50.1-14
It would have been easier for Joseph to bury Jacob in Egypt, but that was not what Jacob wanted. it was not what God had promised, either.
Jacob knew he would probably die in Egypt, but he believed God's promise that he would be buried in Canaan, Joseph did the right thing by asking permission to bury his father in Canaan.
Joseph demonstrated great faith in God's Word. Sometimes it can be difficult to know what God wants us to do. Once we do know, we would be foolish to ignore it.
It would have been easier for Joseph to bury Jacob in Egypt, but that was not what Jacob wanted. it was not what God had promised, either.
Jacob knew he would probably die in Egypt, but he believed God's promise that he would be buried in Canaan, Joseph did the right thing by asking permission to bury his father in Canaan.
Joseph demonstrated great faith in God's Word. Sometimes it can be difficult to know what God wants us to do. Once we do know, we would be foolish to ignore it.
What else can we learn from the book of Genesis?
Have you ever felt like everything in your life was falling apart? You need new tires and brakes for your car. A promotion you were hoping to get at work went to someone else. You find out that your cat has a terminal illness. No matter what you did, nothing seemed to go right. Eventually, though, things do turn around. No matter how discouraged we may get, we can always hope for a better day.
In Genesis, we see how God created a good world populated by creatures and humans of his own handiwork. But everything gets off course. People doubt God and follow their own schemes. Then violence sweeps through the human race until God steps in and almost entirely sweeps out humans.
When all seems lost, God enters a special friendship with a man named Abraham. After Abraham dies, God's friendship passed to his son Isaac, and then to his son Jacob. After that, God's friendship widens to include all twelve of Jacob's sons. What made these men special? Despite what we may assume, there was nothing extraordinary about any of them. They all made their share of mistakes. What made them different was that they believed in God. They placed their hope in God and the fact that he would bring a better day for them.
What does this mean for us? God loves us - Mistakes and all. He always has, and he always will. He doesn't plan to leave us bumbling and stumbling through life with no hope for a better day. God makes friends with people to transform their existence into a truly meaningful and successful life.
Have you ever felt like everything in your life was falling apart? You need new tires and brakes for your car. A promotion you were hoping to get at work went to someone else. You find out that your cat has a terminal illness. No matter what you did, nothing seemed to go right. Eventually, though, things do turn around. No matter how discouraged we may get, we can always hope for a better day.
In Genesis, we see how God created a good world populated by creatures and humans of his own handiwork. But everything gets off course. People doubt God and follow their own schemes. Then violence sweeps through the human race until God steps in and almost entirely sweeps out humans.
When all seems lost, God enters a special friendship with a man named Abraham. After Abraham dies, God's friendship passed to his son Isaac, and then to his son Jacob. After that, God's friendship widens to include all twelve of Jacob's sons. What made these men special? Despite what we may assume, there was nothing extraordinary about any of them. They all made their share of mistakes. What made them different was that they believed in God. They placed their hope in God and the fact that he would bring a better day for them.
What does this mean for us? God loves us - Mistakes and all. He always has, and he always will. He doesn't plan to leave us bumbling and stumbling through life with no hope for a better day. God makes friends with people to transform their existence into a truly meaningful and successful life.
FOR CONSIDERATION
- What evidence of chaos and violence in the world troubles you the most?
- What events in your life seem to indicate that God is showing interest in you?
- What results do you want in your life from a friendship with God?
- What evidence of chaos and violence in the world troubles you the most?
- What events in your life seem to indicate that God is showing interest in you?
- What results do you want in your life from a friendship with God?
