Five of Joseph’s brothers now have the privilege of meeting Pharaoh (v1-6). It appears that Joseph uses the fact that they are shepherds, an occupation detested by the Egyptians, to insure that they would be able to live in a place with some distance and freedom from the Egyptians.

Joseph is aware of the danger of them being immersed into Egyptian culture and then lose their distinctiveness as God’s people. We need to be careful that while we are in the world we are not of the world (see Romans 12 v1-2).

Elderly Jacob then is brought to meet Pharaoh (v7-10). Twice we read of Jacob blessing Pharaoh (v7 & 10). God promised Abraham that his family would be a blessing to the nations.

We need to realise that if we are God’s children we have been given this great privilege and responsibility to bring God’s blessing to those around us. Pray about how you can be a blessing to those you live among, study or work with, or socialise with.

We will be a blessing when we are distinctive for Christ and know His power and blessing transforming our lives. Jacob’s son Joseph came to Egypt to save  a nation. With God’s grace, who knows how your life can help bring salvation to many needy people.