DOWN TO EGYPT

Today’s Reading: Genesis 38-39

Click scripture link to read online or HERE to listen online (then click the symbol of the audio speaker above the scripture portion).

The Great Sphinx and the Pyramids of Giza are among the most recognizable symbols of the civilization of ancient Egypt. Joseph and the Midianite slave traders may well have passed here.

GOOGLE MAPS – See where Reynold took the photo – Click HERE.

Key Verse: Genesis 39:9

…There is no one greater in this house than I, nor has he kept back anything from me but you, because you are his wife. How then can I do this great wickedness, and sin against God?

Chapter 38 is such a contrast with chapter 39. Immorality vs. morality. Judah was wrong. Joseph was right. Joseph faced a temptation that is glorified today – the temptation to sin sexually. Therefore, it’s important that we take to heart Joseph’s response. He refused to “do this great wickedness and sin against God.” Joseph proves that we can, if we will, stand firm in doing right, recognizing that to do otherwise is to act against God. His is an example we should follow. Ultimately, Jesus is our supreme Example of holy living…moral steel down His backbone. Joseph paid a price for his righteous stand. Jesus paid the infinite price as the sinless Sacrificial Offering for the sins of all people.

PRAYER FOR TODAY:

Lord God, please put steel down my backbone. Please give me moral strength as You did for the Apostle Paul who wrote Your words to him, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness” (2 Corinthians 12:9). Thank You, Lord Jesus, that You live in me and I in You. Together we are strong. Amen!

100 PERSONAL WORDS:

For years I quoted Galatians 2:20 each morning: “I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me.” I have recommended many times to all who struggle to live a Godly life that they memorize this verse as I have done and quote it daily. There is such power in God’s Word. “Your Word have I hid in my heart that I might not sin against You” (Psalm 119:11). I found that memorization plus daily quoting moves the Word from my brain into my heart. The Word is pumped throughout my entire being all day long. Joseph is a hero of mine, but my ultimate Hero is Christ…and “Christ lives in me!” I have failed many times, but “Jesus never fails.”

Yours for holy living,

David

Here’s Norma-Jean and me with the former Lieutenant Governor of Ontario (the Queen’s representative), The Hon. David and Ruth-Ann Onley. They appeared recently on the 100 Huntley Street telecast. Click here to watch the interview.

Norma-Jean and me with the Honourable David C. Onley and his wife Ruth Ann, following his farewell dinner. He served 7 years as Lieutenant Governor of Ontario.

The official portrait of David C. Onley was unveiled at his farewell dinner. It will hang at Queens Park, along with the paintings of all of Ontario’s past Lieutenant Governors. Note his Bible in the painting.