Day 18 · January 18
A devotional for today
Today’s readings
- Old Testament: GENESIS 37:1-38:30
- New Testament: MATTHEW 12:22-45
- Psalm: PSALM 16:1-11
- Proverb: PROVERBS 3:27-32
Old Testament
Joseph’s favored status breeds jealousy, and his brothers sell him into slavery while Judah descends into sexual compromise. God’s covenant family is clearly flawed, yet God’s purposes continue through and beyond their sin.
New Testament
Jesus casts out demons, exposes the danger of hardened unbelief, and teaches that true kinship with him is marked by obedience to the Father. Neutrality toward Jesus is impossible.
Psalm
Psalm 16 rejoices in God as the believer’s secure portion, counselor, and path to life. In God’s presence there is lasting joy.
Proverb
Do not withhold good when it is in your power to act. Love is demonstrated through timely justice and generous action.
Discover
Joseph’s humiliation and later exaltation foreshadow Christ, the beloved Son rejected by his own and yet used by God for
salvation. Jesus also redefines family around obedience born of faith.
Reflect
God’s plan is not threatened by human betrayal, though betrayal always carries real sorrow and guilt. The safest place for the heart is near the Lord, our true portion and joy.
Fellowship
What themes begin to emerge in Joseph’s story?
Why does Jesus speak so sharply about hardened hearts?
How does Psalm 16 anchor identity and joy?
Where is it in your power to do good that you may be postponing?
Prayer
Father, keep my heart soft toward Jesus and quick to do good. Be my portion, my joy, and my security.
Live
Do one concrete good today that you already know is in your power to do.