How can we apply Joseph's respect for his father's wishes in our families? Joseph’s Example of Honor “‘I am about to die. Bury me in the tomb I dug for myself in the land of Canaan.’ So let me go now to bury my father; then I will return.” (Genesis 50:5) - Joseph treats his father’s last request as sacred, not optional. - He rearranges his own high-level responsibilities to carry it out. - He asks permission from Pharaoh, modeling both respect for authority and steadfast loyalty to family. Why Joseph’s Response Matters - Obedience to a parent’s godly desire fulfills the Fifth Commandment (Exodus 20:12). - Honoring parents is linked to promise and blessing (Ephesians 6:2-3). - Keeping a sworn promise reflects God’s own faithfulness (Numbers 30:2). Practical Ways to Show Similar Honor Today 1. Listen Fully - Turn off distractions; give eye contact (Proverbs 1:8). - Ask clarifying questions so you can repeat back what you heard. 2. Record Important Wishes - Encourage parents to write or speak their desires about spiritual matters, health care, funeral plans, heirlooms, family traditions. - Keep copies accessible and share with siblings to avoid confusion. 3. Follow Through Promptly - Schedule action items on the calendar. - If travel, finances, or paperwork are needed, start early. 4. Communicate Respectfully With Other Authorities - Boss, church leaders, civil offices may need notice, as Pharaoh did. - A courteous request often gains their support. 5. Involve the Next Generation - Let children observe you honoring grandparents; habits are caught more than taught (Deuteronomy 6:6-7). - Explain why you are doing it: “Because God tells us to honor our parents.” 6. Preserve Spiritual Legacy - Joseph buried Jacob in Canaan to anchor the family to God’s covenant land. - Maintain family Bible reading, testimony sharing, and gatherings that remind everyone of God’s faithfulness (Psalm 78:4). When Obedience Is Challenging - If a parent’s wish conflicts with Scripture, obey God first (Acts 5:29) while still showing courtesy. - If multiple siblings disagree, pursue peace and fairness (Romans 12:18). - When distance or limitations interfere, enlist trusted friends, church family, or professionals; Joseph used Egyptian resources for the funeral procession (Genesis 50:9-10). Blessings That Follow - A clear conscience: “We have behaved honorably in all things” (Hebrews 13:18). - Unity among relatives as they rally around a shared purpose (Psalm 133:1). - A testimony to unbelievers; Pharaoh saw Joseph’s faith-driven loyalty and granted favor (Genesis 50:6). - God’s promise of well-being and longevity that still echoes today (Ephesians 6:3). As Joseph honored Jacob, so we can intentionally honor our parents, reflecting God's own steadfast love and passing that legacy to our families. |
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