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Genesis 37:20 (BSB)
“Come now, let us kill him and throw him into one of the pits. We can say that a vicious animal has devoured him. Then we shall see what becomes of his dreams!”
THE HOLY BIBLE
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Scripture quotations (main text) are from the Berean Study Bible (BSB), © 2016, 2018 by Bible Hub. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), ©2001 by Crossway, is used for comparison and word study only.
Bible Copyright & Permissions““Come now, let us kill him and throw him into one of the pits. We can say that a vicious animal has devoured him. Then we shall see what becomes of his dreams!”” — Genesis 37:20
Imagine a group of brothers, fueled by jealousy and anger, plotting to harm one of their own. They're so consumed by their emotions that they're discussing hiding a terrible act behind a lie. It's chilling, isn’t it? In this moment, they’re not just talking about killing someone; they’re speaking about crushing dreams. Their words are dark and filled with malice, and you can feel the tension as they think of an elaborate cover-up. It’s a heartbreaking snapshot of betrayal and the lengths people will go to out of jealousy. You can almost hear their whispers and feel the weight of their decision hanging in the air.
The book of Genesis was traditionally attributed to Moses, who wanted to share the stories of creation, the patriarchs, and how the world began. This detail about the brothers' plot serves to highlight the very human emotions of jealousy and betrayal that exist in all families. Moses included this not just to recount history but to help people understand the weight of family relationships and the dire consequences of letting negative emotions take over. He was telling a story that resonates through generations.
Genesis was written during a time when the Israelites were forming their identity as a people, likely during their wandering in the desert after leaving Egypt. This was a period rich with struggle and searching for purpose. Understanding this context helps you see that jealousy and betrayal aren’t just ancient problems; they’re universal human experiences. The world was filled with conflict, and families were grappling with loyalty and trust, much like today.
This verse matters because it shines a light on the destructive power of jealousy and how it can lead to harmful actions. You might find yourself in situations where envy sneaks in, whether in friendships, at work, or in family. This moment is a reminder to check your emotions before they drive you to hurt others or yourself. The dreams that are mentioned here represent hopes and aspirations. When jealousy takes over, it can blind you to your own potential and dreams. Recognizing this can help you steer clear of toxic thoughts and actions.
This week, take a moment to reflect on any feelings of jealousy you might have. When you notice those feelings creeping in, challenge yourself to turn them around. Instead of focusing on what others have, think about what you appreciate about your own life and dreams. You could even write down your goals or things you’re grateful for to counteract those negative feelings. This practice can help you keep your heart and mind in a healthier place, fostering support and encouragement towards others instead of envy.
This moment is the climax of a story filled with family drama. Leading up to this, Joseph, one of the brothers, has been sharing his dreams of greatness, which only stirs up more resentment among his siblings. They see him as the favorite son, and their jealousy reaches a boiling point. This plot to get rid of him not only represents a turning point in their family dynamics but also sets the stage for future events that will change their lives. After this moment, Joseph will face incredible challenges, but he will also rise to a position of power. This verse is a crucial moment that shows how deep jealousy can lead to destructive choices, impacting not just one person but an entire family.
What dreams or aspirations in your life have you let jealousy overshadow, and how can you refocus on your own path instead?
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