Joseph in Egypt
Forgiveness & Providence
Genesis 41-50about 2 minutes to read aloud
In Egypt, Joseph served in a great house, and later, in a prison he did not deserve. The Lord was with him everywhere. And God gave Joseph wisdom to understand dreams.
Pharaoh had a troubling dream — seven fat cows eaten by seven thin cows. Joseph was brought from the prison. "God is warning you," Joseph said. "Seven years of plenty will come, and then seven years of famine. Store the grain now."
Pharaoh made Joseph ruler over all Egypt. For seven years Joseph gathered grain. Then the famine came, and it was harsh. It spread even to Canaan, where Joseph's family was.
Joseph's brothers came to Egypt to buy food. They did not recognize the great man standing before them. But Joseph knew them. He tested their hearts. He saw they were sorry for what they had done.
Then Joseph could not hold back. "I am Joseph, your brother, whom you sold into Egypt." The brothers were afraid. But Joseph said, "Do not fear. You meant it for evil, but God meant it for good, to save many lives."
Joseph brought his whole family to Egypt. His old father Jacob saw him again and wept. And a hungry nation ate bread because the Lord had not forgotten the promises He made to Abraham long ago.
Questions to talk about
What did Joseph explain about Pharaoh's dream?
Show the answer
Joseph said God was showing Pharaoh seven years of plenty, then seven years of famine.
What did Joseph say to his brothers when they were afraid?
Show the answer
Joseph said what they meant for evil, God used for good to save many lives.
Who did Joseph bring to live with him in Egypt?
Show the answer
Joseph brought his father Jacob and all his brothers and their families to Egypt.
The lesson
God can take the worst a person has done and weave it into rescue. His plans do not fail.
