[[-SOAP HUB]] | [[-Genesis Overview]] | [[Genesis 45]] ## Title: Goodness Brings Favor ## Scripture: (Genesis 45:17-18) Pharaoh said to Joseph, “Say to your brothers, ‘Do this: Load your animals and go to the land of Canaan! Get your father and your households and come to me! Then I will give you the best land in Egypt and you will eat the best of the land.’ (NET) ## Observation: One of the aspects of the story of Joseph is the kindness shown to him by the pharaoh. This is a stark contrast to what we will find in the book of Exodus. This pharaoh likely had great respect for Joseph because he was used by God to organize a relief effort before they even knew they needed it. According to the text, it appears as though Joseph showed integrity in all his preparations and continued to do his job, even after being vindicated. Therefore, when it was time for Joseph to need something, pharaoh went overboard in being gracious. We should never be good in order to manipulate people. However, being good has its rewards. When we show goodness to others, the Lord has a way of returning it to us in ways we do not always expect. ## Application: Who is someone that has shown you kindness that now needs your help today? ## Prayer: Thank You, Jesus, for being the ultimate Good in our lives.