Day 20 · January 20
A devotional for today
Today’s readings
- Old Testament: GENESIS 41:17-42:17
- New Testament: MATTHEW 13:24-46
- Psalm: PSALM 18:1-15
- Proverb: PROVERBS 4:1-6
Old Testament
Joseph interprets Pharaoh’s dreams, is elevated to leadership, and begins storing grain for the famine. When his brothers arrive, the one they betrayed now holds the power to test and eventually save them.
New Testament
Jesus compares the kingdom to seed, yeast, treasure, and a pearl of great price. God’s reign may begin quietly, but it is of immeasurable worth and unstoppable growth.
Psalm
Psalm 18 opens in praise to the Lord as rock, fortress, and deliverer. God thunders on behalf of his servant and rescues from overwhelming danger.
Proverb
A father calls his children to receive instruction and prize wisdom above everything else. True wisdom is both inherited and personally embraced.
Discover
Joseph’s exaltation after suffering again foreshadows Christ, who is raised and enthroned to provide life for those who once rejected him. Jesus himself is the treasure worth surrendering everything to gain.
Reflect
The kingdom often looks small before it looks glorious. God teaches us to prize what heaven prizes and to trust his timing in both provision and promotion.
Fellowship
How does Joseph use power at this stage in the story?
Which kingdom image in Matthew 13 speaks loudest to you?
What titles for God in Psalm 18 strengthen your faith?
What competes with wisdom for first place in your life?
Prayer
King Jesus, help me value your kingdom above every rival treasure. Be my rock, my refuge, and my joy.
Live
Choose one sacrifice today that reflects the greater worth of Christ over comfort, money, or status.