Arise and Abide

Reading Genesis 41:1-36 (NLT) ~ Pharaoh’s Dream ~ Scripture reading followed by discussion. Joseph sounding like a different person, humble in heart. Joseph surrendered to God and God’s plan, no longer believing he will achieve what God said He would do. The wisdom of the world is always lacking, God possesses true wisdom. Joseph doesn’t make it about his own wisdom but points Pharaoh to God.

Reading Psalms 37:1-22 (NLT) ~ Scripture reading followed by discussion. Turning from the distractions, turning to God, delighting in His presence. Committing everything you do to the LORD is motivated by loving God and loving people. Be still and wait patiently for God to act. The wicked take the wrath of God into their own hands. Reacting out of anger is not waiting for the LORD.

Reading from Genesis 40:1-23 (NLT) ~ Joseph Interprets Two Dreams ~ Scripture reading followed by discussion.  Seeing the way Joseph’s character is being molded in the process of his circumstance. Give God the glory first. Even when we are not able to be completely selfless, God is faithful and able to complete His good work in us. A woe is me; life is unfair, attitude is not going to help the situation, God’s faithfulness will. The story of all our lives.

Reading from Genesis 39:1-23 (NLT) ~ Joseph in Potiphar’s House~ Scripture reading followed by discussion. The peace and favor found in the LORD’s presence. Proud in position but still with a moral compass. Broken down and rebuilt, God’s favor is there through it all. Its only by God’s faithfulness that there is success. Stand out as different as the Holy Spirit produces good fruit in our lives. Self-Confidence vs. confidence in the LORD’s faithfulness, blessing, and favor.

Reading from Genesis 38:1-30 (NLT) ~ Judah and Tamar~ Scripture reading followed by discussion. God not wanting Abraham, Isaac, or Jacob to marry one of the local Canaanite women, but Judah does marry one. Perez, Tamar, and Judah being referenced in the book of Ruth. Tamar showing Judah something about himself. This interlude showing God’s inclusion of all people in His plan.

Reading from Genesis 37:12-36 (NLT) ~ Joseph’s Dream Cont. Joseph Sold into Slavery~ Scripture reading followed by discussion. Reuben motivated to return Jacob to his father, while Reuben’s and Jacob’s relationship was strained from Reuben sleeping with Bilha. Jacob being deceived with the killing of a goat and using its blood. Twelve sons who want their father’s favor and blessing. The Brothers example of humanity wanting to achieve their goal without baring the burden of our actions.  

Reading from Genesis 37:1-11 (NLT) ~ Joseph’s Dream ~ Scripture reading followed by discussion. Joseph the tattletale and the favored. Naïve young Joseph’s lack of self-awareness. The brother’s wanting Jacob’s favoritism. Human inability to fully show the love of God as God’s love is so big. Jealousy and needing approval are a struggle of every generation. Jacob’s experiences and the Holy Spirit poking at his heart to pay attention. Living in the tension of the space in between.       

Reading from Genesis 35:16-29 (NLT) ~ The Deaths of Rachel and Isaac ~ Scripture reading followed by discussion. Jacobs return to the land promised to Abraham and Isaac with the loss of Rachel. Son of my sorrow, or son of my right hand. Taking stock of all the blessings and relationships around you when you are experiencing loss. Grieving, but not wallowing in the sorrow. God’s perspective is always greater than ours in the middle of the journey. Blessed are those who mourn for they will be comforted.

Reading Psalms 36:1-12 (NLT) ~ Scripture reading followed by discussion. Wicked people’s inability to see how wicked they are and are very focused on themselves.  The importance of looking at our own lives through the filter of the Word of God and saying, “Here I am God, prune me.” Shifting from the troubles and refocusing on the truth and the goodness of God. God shown as one who nurtures and gives life. The problems, the goodness of God, and the request.

Reading from Genesis 35:1-15 (NLT) ~ Jacob’s Return to Bethel ~ Scripture reading followed by discussion. Jacob’s fear is once again seen as situations beyond his control spiral out of control. Jacob has so much more to lose now. Jacob seeing the importance of re-centering on the LORD. Storms that arise bring our focus back to God. God drew close, Jacob responds and draws close, and God continues to draw close. The story of God’s love and faithfulness.