Lessons of a Low-Wattage Bulb

Lessons of a Low-Wattage Bulb

Genesis 39:5 “From the time he put him in charge of his household and of all that he owned, the Lord blessed the household of the Egyptian because of Joseph” (NIV). Observation:  Joseph had been sold into slavery by jealous brothers, beginning a journey that brought...
The Shucked Covering

The Shucked Covering

Genesis 25:34 “So Esau despised his birthright” (NIV). Observation: Esau and his brother Jacob were the twin sons of Isaac and Rebekah. As the first-born, Esau had a natural birthright to receive Isaac’s estate, but Esau one day returned home famished and agreed to...
Fleshly Bargain

Fleshly Bargain

Genesis 24:12 “Then he prayed, ‘O Lord, God of my master Abraham, give me success today, and show kindness to my master Abraham.’ ” Observation: Sarah had died, and Abraham was nearing the end of his life. The one thing he had yet to do was to secure a wife for his...
What Good Is a Lying Prophet?

What Good Is a Lying Prophet?

Genesis 20:7 “Now return the man’s wife, for he is a prophet, and he will pray for you” (NIV). Observation: Twice, Abraham had lied about his relationship with Sarah, this time to Abimelech, the pagan king of Gerar. Sarah was technically Abraham’s half-sister, having...
Sodom Wasn’t the Problem

Sodom Wasn’t the Problem

Genesis 19:8 “Don’t do anything to these men, for they have come under the protection of my roof” (NIV). Observation: By these words, Lot was trying to protect two male houseguests from marauding homosexuals who had the place surrounded, demanding to have their way...
Firepots and Torches

Firepots and Torches

Genesis 15:8 “But Abram said, ‘O Sovereign Lord, how can I know that I will gain possession of it?’” (NIV). Observation: Abram and God were in a conversation that would be astonishing were it not so commonplace with them. God had just promised him “great reward,” and...