What does Joseph's instruction to "tell my father" teach about sharing God's work? Setting the Scene “Tell my father about all my glory in Egypt and about everything you have seen. And bring my father down here quickly.” (Genesis 45:13) Joseph’s Heart for Testimony - Joseph recognizes that every detail of his journey—from pit to palace—has been orchestrated by God (Genesis 45:5–8). - By instructing his brothers to “tell,” he places a high value on verbal testimony. Silence would rob Jacob of seeing God’s providence in action. - He identifies his achievements (“all my glory in Egypt”) not as self-promotion but as evidence of the Lord’s faithfulness. Lessons for Us: Sharing the Works of God • Celebrate God’s sovereignty – Joseph’s story underscores Romans 8:28: “all things work together for good.” Proclaiming God’s work reminds listeners that the same sovereign hand guides their lives. • Give God the credit – Psalm 115:1, “Not to us, LORD, not to us, but to Your name be the glory.” Joseph’s report centers on what God has done, preventing man-centered boasting. • Be specific and truthful – Joseph wants Jacob to hear “everything you have seen.” Concrete details make God’s intervention unmistakable (Mark 5:19). • Act with urgency – “Bring my father down here quickly.” Testimony is time-sensitive; people need hope now (2 Corinthians 6:2). • Testimony fuels faith and obedience – Jacob’s decision to leave Canaan is stirred by the report (Genesis 45:27–28). Our stories move others to trust and act (Revelation 12:11). Further Biblical Echoes - The healed demoniac sent home to “tell how much God has done for you” (Luke 8:39). - Peter and John: “We cannot stop speaking about what we have seen and heard” (Acts 4:20). - The Samaritan woman: “Come, see a Man” (John 4:29). Each account mirrors Joseph’s pattern—personal experience shared for God’s glory. Practical Takeaways • Recall and rehearse God’s interventions; they are worth telling. • Frame every achievement as evidence of divine grace. • Share sooner rather than later; hearts may be waiting for your story. • Let testimony lead to invitation—urge others to “come and see.” |
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