Genesis·Chapter 47

How to Apply

Think about how you can help someone in need this week. It could be as simple as sharing your lunch with a friend who forgot theirs, donating to a local food bank, or even just offering a listening ear to someone going through a tough time. Just like Joseph exchanged food for livestock, consider what you have that you can offer to others. Look for opportunities in your daily life to be a source of support and nourishment—emotionally or physically—for those around you.

Chapter Context

In this chapter, there's a severe famine gripping the land, and people are struggling to find food. It leads to a chaotic scene where the citizens of Egypt find themselves bargaining whatever they have left for survival. Joseph, who has been appointed by Pharaoh to manage the resources during this crisis, is at the center of it all. This moment, where livestock is exchanged for food, is pivotal because it showcases Joseph's role as a provider. It emphasizes the lengths people will go to in order to survive, and it sets the stage for further developments in the story, including how Joseph's actions will impact the future of Egypt and his own family. It’s a dramatic tale of survival, leadership, and the human spirit’s resilience.

Key Biblical Words (Word Study)

• brought - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• livestock - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• joseph - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• joseph - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• gave - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• food - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• flocks - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• herds - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• donkeys - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• supplied - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".

Reflection Question

What does this verse teach you about the importance of helping others in times of need?

Related Verses

• Matthew 25:35 - This verse connects because it emphasizes the importance of giving food to those who are hungry, just like Joseph did.
• Proverbs 19:17 - This verse reminds us that when you help the poor, you’re actually doing something good for yourself, reflecting Joseph's actions in this moment.
• Isaiah 58:10 - Written 700 years later, this verse talks about feeding the hungry and helping those in need, aligning perfectly with the spirit of Joseph's actions.

Personal Prayer

Lord, thank You for the truth found in Genesis 47:17. Help me to take the insights from this scripture and apply them to my heart today.Amen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Main Themes

Leadership, Survival, Provision, Power Dynamics, Family Reunion, Famine, Servitude

Key Verses

Genesis 47:5-6, Genesis 47:11, Genesis 47:19-20, Genesis 47:14, Genesis 47:12

Historical Context

Genesis 47 is part of the larger narrative detailing the story of Joseph, who was sold into slavery by his brothers and eventually became a powerful leader in Egypt. Written during Israel's wilderness journey, this chapter serves not only as a historical account but also as a theological reflection on God's providence in times of hardship. The setting of a severe famine links the personal struggles of Joseph's family with the larger societal transformations occurring in Egypt. By showcasing Joseph's rise to power and his management of resources, the narrative illustrates God's sovereignty and purpose even in dire circumstances.