Day 96 – Genesis 47:1-6
What Is Your Occupation?
Scripture Reading – Genesis 47:1-6
Then Joseph came and told Pharaoh, and said, My father and my brethren, and their flocks, and their herds, and all that they have, are come out of the land of Canaan; and, behold, they are in the land of Goshen.
Genesis 47:1 KJV
And he took some of his brethren, even five men, and presented them unto Pharaoh.
Genesis 47:2 KJV
And Pharaoh said unto his brethren, What is your occupation? And they said unto Pharaoh, Thy servants are shepherds, both we, and also our fathers.
Genesis 47:3 KJV
They said moreover unto Pharaoh, For to sojourn in the land are we come; for thy servants have no pasture for their flocks; for the famine is sore in the land of Canaan: now therefore, we pray thee, let thy servants dwell in the land of Goshen.
Genesis 47:4 KJV
And Pharaoh spake unto Joseph, saying, Thy father and thy brethren are come unto thee:
Genesis 47:5 KJV
The land of Egypt is before thee; in the best of the land make thy father and brethren to dwell; in the land of Goshen let them dwell: and if thou knowest any men of activity among them, then make them rulers over my cattle.
Genesis 47:6 KJV
Scripture Review
Joseph tells Pharaoh that his family has arrived in Goshen, then presents five of his brothers. Pharaoh asks their occupation, and they answer plainly that they are shepherds, as their fathers were. They also explain that the famine has left no pasture in Canaan and request permission to dwell in Goshen.
Their answer is respectful without being ashamed. They are not trying to seize Egypt or pretend they came as permanent owners. They call themselves sojourners and ask for a place suited to the flocks. Pharaoh grants the best of the land and even asks Joseph to place capable men over his own cattle. Honest work and demonstrated ability become service beyond the family.
The brothers meant to answer Pharaoh truthfully, explain their need, and request lawful permission to settle their households and flocks in Goshen.
God meant to give Israel a suitable place, preserve their distinct household, and let capable shepherds serve even within Pharaoh’s estate.
What this asks of me
I should be able to answer what I do without exaggeration or embarrassment. Honest work has dignity. When seeking help, a clear explanation of need and a respectful request are better than entitlement. Capability may also open a place to serve people outside my immediate circle.
Consider
- Can I describe my work and need honestly without pretending or apology?
- What ability has God given me that could serve beyond my own household?