I am your friend, Dr. Charles Apoki. Today, we continue our study on Joseph, reflecting on Genesis 47:11-12:
Joseph placed his father and his brethren, and gave them a possession in the land of Egypt, in the best of the land, in the land of Rameses, as Pharaoh had commanded. And Joseph nourished his father, and his brethren, and all his father’s household, with bread, according to their families.
This passage highlights Joseph’s incredible journey and purpose. He provided for his family, nourishing them during a time of great need. His story carries vital lessons for our lives today.
Reunions and Emotions
When Joseph met his father Jacob, the moment was emotional. Jacob had believed Joseph was dead, and Joseph never thought he would see his father again. This reunion reflects the deep emotional connections within families and the pain of separation.
I often watch a YouTube channel that reunites families—fathers with children they left behind or people adopted into other countries. These moments are deeply moving, revealing the emotional volcanoes that erupt when long-lost loved ones reunite. Many of us carry similar emotional tensions, yearning for reconnections.
Called According to Purpose
Joseph’s life exemplifies Romans 8:28: All things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are called according to His purpose. He was a man wrapped in purpose, evolving through various stages—a coat of many colors, prison garments, and finally royal attire. Each stage, including the challenges, moved him closer to his destiny.
You may have faced false accusations, disappointments, or hatred. These struggles often indicate that the purpose in your life is under attack. Remember, everything will work together for your good.
Delays Are Not Denials
Joseph’s life teaches us that delays don’t mean defeat. By age 39, he hadn’t married or had children, yet his two sons, Ephraim and Manasseh, became two tribes of Israel. While some pregnancies, like a rat’s, last only 21 days, an elephant’s gestation period is 22 months. Great things take time.
Even if life seems delayed, remember: your story is still unfolding. God used me, despite my challenges, to take my family name beyond our locality. Similarly, God will use you or someone in your lineage to globalize and nourish your family.
Nourishing Others
Joseph fed 72 people, providing bread for his entire family. He used his position and resources to care for them, choosing not to dwell on past betrayals. He looked forward, not backward.
The rearview mirror of a car is smaller than the windshield. You glance at it to avoid accidents, but you must focus on what lies ahead. Dwelling on past hurts will only stagnate you. Like Lot’s wife, who looked back and turned into a pillar of salt, you risk becoming stuck if you fixate on past mistakes or enemies.
Forgiveness and Forward Movement
Joseph forgave his brothers and chose to focus on his higher calling. Similarly, we must let go of bitterness, anger, jealousy, and distractions like church politics or marital crises. Look forward to the greater things God has planned for you.
As we step into 2025, I encourage you to forget past mistakes and press forward. God has a greater purpose for your life. You will globalize and nourish your family, just as Joseph did.
God bless you.
— Dr. Charles Apoki
