Daily Devotional

Saturday, 17th September

Topic: Lay down your life for humanity

Bible Passage: Genesis 47:20-26

“So Joseph made it a statute concerning the land of Egypt and it stands till this day that pharaoh should have the fifth, the land of priest alone did not become pharaohs” (v.26).

The passage show the extent Joseph had gone in rescuing the people from the ravaging famine and also turning the resources of the land to the state. Pike Albert’s said: “What we have done for ourselves dies with us, but what we have done for others and the world remains and is immortal.” We see in Joseph a man who has laid down his life for his brothers who offended him and the rest of humanity.

His relevant gift helped the troubled prisoners muster courage. Through the same gift he delivered Pharaoh from pressure that almost plagued him to death.  It will be recalled that Pharaohs worry over his dream took his place and rest.

Joseph was one such person that the book of Proverb referred to: A slave who deals wisely will rule over a son who acts shamefully and will share inheritance as one of the brothers” (Proverb 17:2).

Through his gift he came to lime light but did not forget God or the fear of God. As a gifted administrator in government, he made policies that brought Egypt to be able to preserve food for the feeding of the whole world, never diverted any to his personal pocket, he received just enough income to cover his present need, and turned the rest to the state. Such an open demonstration of selfless service is scarce in our society today.

Child of God how do you behave when you are trusted with a position? Each of them is a test that takes you to higher grounds if you pass it. Yes indeed it is an access to a higher place of honour and blessing both in this age and more so in the age that is coming. So Joseph sold out all the land with a statute and every other resources of the land and other reserves, he handed them over to pharaoh. He did not think of diverting some to himself or his family, such a thing is very rare in our time.

Brethren let us be wise, the Bible says ”Getting of treasure by lying tongue is a vanity tossed to and fro of them that seek death” (Prov. 21:6). Joseph revered God and saved humanity, he is still remembered in honour till now let us follow suit.

Action: One of the greatest achievements in this world is that of imparting on humanity positively in the few days we spend on earth.

Prayer Points

1.       Oh Lord, my God grant me the wisdom that I need in my walk with you and service to humanity.

2.       God use the gifts in my life to salvage and transform my world.

3.       Let the spirit of integrity and selfless leadership quality of Joseph possess me.