Genesis 46

S: Genesis 46:2-And God spoke to Israel in a vision at night and said, “Jacob! Jacob!”
“Here I am,” he replied. 3 “I am God, the God of your father,” he said. “Do not be afraid to go down to Egypt, for I will make you into a great nation there. 4 I will go down to Egypt with you, and I will surely bring you back again. And Joseph’s own hand will close your eyes."

O: This chapter is an account of Jacob (aka Israel, which Scripture uses interchangeably) getting ready to reunite with his son Joseph who he thought had been dead, but was told was still alive.

U: Along the way to Egypt, God felt it necessary to encourage Jacob. Jacob was afraid to go down to Egypt (vs. 3). There are a few reasons why he could've been afraid. Maybe he was afraid that he wouldn't make it to his destination because he was close to death. Maybe he was afraid that Pharaoh would harm his family in Egypt. Maybe he was afraid of seeing his son after all these years. Scripture doesn't clearly specify the reason for his fear, but it is safe to say that it was due to the unknown. Because God is such a loving, caring and compassionate Father to His children, He recognized Israel's fear and encouraged him to keep going. He reminded Him of who He was first ("I am God, the God of your father."). He reminded Israel of His promise to make Him into a great nation there in Egypt. He told him not to be afraid and reminded Israel that He would be with Him even through his fear of the unknown. God gave Him His blessing to keep moving forward.

L: What "unknown" thing is making you afraid? What new destination or season in life is God calling You through that You need to trust Him in? Dear Lord, I believe there are many (including myself), in situations that are new, unknown, scary, uncomfortable, etc., but that You have called us to not be afraid because You are God and will be with us through it. Thank You for Your faithfulness in every season of our lives and help us to remember to keep our focus on You no matter what. Amen.