What lessons on stewardship can we learn from Genesis 47:18? Setting the Scene Joseph has administered seven years of plenty and now seven years of famine. By the second year of famine, the Egyptians return to him and confess: “When that year was over, they came to him the next year and said, ‘We cannot hide from my lord that the money is gone and our livestock and cattle are my lord’s. There is nothing left for my lord but our bodies and our land.’” (Genesis 47:18) What the Egyptians Admit • Their resources—money, livestock, even land—are exhausted. • They answer honestly; “we cannot hide.” • They recognize everything they have is now Pharaoh’s. Stewardship Lessons for Us • Ownership belongs to another – Just as the Egyptians concede their possessions to Pharaoh, Scripture reminds us that “The earth is the LORD’s, and the fullness thereof” (Psalm 24:1). – A steward never forgets the real Owner. • Accountability is unavoidable – “We cannot hide” echoes 2 Corinthians 5:10: “We must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ.” – Faithful managers keep clear, honest records—nothing swept under the rug. • Resources are finite; God’s provision is not – Money, herds, and land ran out; God’s storehouse never does (Philippians 4:19). – True security rests in the Giver, not the gifts. • Planning beats panic – Joseph’s prior foresight (Genesis 41:33-36) contrasts with the people’s last-minute desperation. – Wise budgeting, savings, and generosity in times of plenty prepare us for lean seasons (Proverbs 6:6-8). • Surrender leads to life – Egyptians offer themselves and their land in exchange for seed and survival (Genesis 47:23-25). – Our Lord calls for a deeper surrender: “You are not your own; you were bought at a price” (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). • Stewardship embraces work – After surrendering, the people serve Pharaoh on the land (Genesis 47:23). – Work is a God-given avenue to cultivate and multiply resources (Genesis 2:15; Ephesians 4:28). Practical Takeaways • Hold every possession loosely; hold the Owner tightly. • Live transparently—maintain honest finances and open books. • Build margin in seasons of abundance; stash grain while the bins are full. • Make surrender a daily rhythm: “Lord, it’s all Yours—use me and my resources for Your glory.” • Embrace diligent, faithful labor as worship, not merely survival. Remembering the Ultimate Owner The Egyptians’ confession to Pharaoh is a snapshot; our confession to the Lord is eternal. Everything originates with Him, is sustained by Him, and will return to Him (Romans 11:36). Genuine stewardship, then, is living every day—money, time, talents, and land—in light of that unchanging truth. |
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