The fear of death keeps many in bondage. See Hebrews 2:13-15. Jesus has come to deliver. You are not ready to live until you are ready to die. A child of God can smile at death. No matter how good or great you are you are going to die (Unless Jesus returns). Joseph wouldn’t be caught dead in Egypt! His bones were to go with the people when they leave Egypt. See Hebrews 11:22. Would you like to be able to smile at death? Would you like to have the assurance that Joseph had?

1 – Remember the unbreakable promises of God (vs. 24)

It was by faith that Joseph made them promise to take his bones. God had made a promise three centuries ago to Abraham and Joseph believed it. See Genesis 15:13-14. Faith is not positive thinking, it is not a hunch, it is not hoping for the best, it is not self-confidence. It is getting a word from God and believing it. Faith is not naming it and claiming it. You cannot claim it until God names it. God took an oath and He cannot be a liar.

2 – Rest in the unshakable power of God (vs. 24)

Emotions did not matter much to Joseph. He believed in the promises of God and would not be shaken. You may not feel you are saved but that does not change the fact that you are saved if you believe in Jesus Christ. Faith is not shaken by delay. Faith is willing to wait. When God says he will do something – He will do it. Jesus is coming literally again.

3 – Receive in the unmistakable peace of God (vs.25)

See Exodus 13:19 & Joshua 24:32. The bones of Joseph are buried in the land. Why was it so important to Joseph? He wanted to be a part of what God is doing. Joseph was not a materialist. He could have had a great monument like the Pharaohs. He built a monument of faith. See Daniel 12:2-3. As they put the bones in to the ground Joseph knew that those bones would come together when the Lord returns. You can have the peace of God that when you die it is not the end.

Categories: Genesis