Today’s readings were very good, but as I read Genesis 45 one thing struck me, the Pharaoh’s generosity towards the brothers of Joseph. Once the Pharaoh found out who they were this was his reaction.
Genesis 45:16 When the news reached Pharaoh's palace that Joseph's brothers had come, Pharaoh and all his officials were pleased.17 Pharaoh said to Joseph, "Tell your brothers, 'Do this: Load your animals and return to the land of Canaan,18 and bring your father and your families back to me. I will give you the best of the land of Egypt and you can enjoy the fat of the land.'
Genesis 45:19 "You are also directed to tell them, 'Do this: Take some carts from Egypt for your children and your wives, and get your father and come.20 Never mind about your belongings, because the best of all Egypt will be yours.'"
Now the Pharaoh could have just been happy for Joseph and after Joseph had done so much for the land of Egypt this was, but a small token of his appreciation for that, which I am sure is part of the truth. However the Pharaoh also knew that the Spirit of God was with Joseph and he feared and respected that.
Genesis 41:38 So Pharaoh asked them, "Can we find anyone like this man, one in whom is the spirit of God?"
So for that fact that Joseph had done great things for the country of Egypt through the power of God the Pharaoh honored that and honored God in doing so. We should turn to this as an example of how we are to treat others. We do not do so out of our desire to please them or look good in the eyes of others, but out of a fear and reverence for the Creator of this universe. He has told us “to love others as ourselves.” I think to add to that a little more that we should love them as God loves them and us.
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