Divine Protection in Goshen: Lessons from Joseph’s Journey
You shall dwell in the land of Goshen, and you shall be near to me, you and your children, your children’s children, your flocks and your herds, and all that you have. There I will provide for you, lest you and your household, and all that you have, come to poverty; for there are still
You shall dwell in the land of Goshen, and you shall be near to me, you and your children, your children’s children, your flocks and your herds, and all that you have. There I will provide for you, lest you and your household, and all that you have, come to poverty; for there are still five years of famine.
Genesis 45:10–11
Hello, dear friend! Let’s dive into this beautiful passage together and uncover the profound message it holds for us.
In the Old Testament story of Joseph, we observe a poignant scene in which Joseph confesses himself to his brothers. He instructs them to return to their father and bring him to Egypt, specifically the land of Goshen. Joseph responds, “Come down to me, do not tarry.” You will live in the country of Goshen, near me, with your children, your children’s children, your flocks and herds, and everything you own.” (Gen. 45:9-10). The name “Goshen” means “drawing near,” which is noteworthy since it represents proximity and connection.
- Joseph’s Revelation: Joseph reveals himself to his brothers and invites them to live in Goshen, symbolizing closeness to God.
- Meaning of Goshen: Goshen means “drawing near,” representing a place of intimacy with God.
- God’s Desire: God wants more than just to remove our sins; He wants us in His presence to lavish His love upon us.
- Divine Protection: Drawing near to Jesus ensures divine protection, even in the face of deadly viruses and plagues.
- Biblical Example: The children of Israel were kept safe in Goshen during the plagues in Egypt, showing God’s protection over His people.
God intends for us to be in our own “Goshen,” a location where we might come closer to Him. As Ephesians 1:6 states, there is no place closer to Him than being with the Beloved. God’s heart of love is not satisfied with simply eliminating our sins; He desires more. He wants us to be in His presence so that He might shower us with His abundant love.
When we approach close to Jesus, we receive divine protection. In recent years, new strains of dangerous viruses have made headlines. Regardless of what the virus is, we can confidently affirm, “A thousand may fall at my side, and ten thousand at my right hand; but it shall not come near me, God’s beloved!” (Ps. 91:7).
The account of the plagues in Egypt demonstrates God’s protection for His people. When Pharaoh refused to let God’s people go, plagues and pestilences swept through Egypt. God promised the children of Israel that the land of Goshen, where they lived, would be free of flies, allowing them to recognize His presence. I will make a difference between My people and your people…” (Exod. 8:22-23). This demonstrates that God’s beloved people vary from the rest of the world. While Egypt was afflicted, the children of Israel remained safe in Goshen, unaffected by the turmoil.
So, even if there are awful things going on in the world today, remember that as God’s cherished child, you are in the world but not of it (John 17:11-16). No plague, evil, or danger can come near you or your home because you are protected in the Most High’s secret haven. Just as the children of Israel were safe and protected in Goshen, so will you and I, whom God names cherished.
Thank you for reading this devotion on the story of Joseph and the land of Goshen. I hope it has brought you comfort and a deeper understanding of God’s love and protection. If you found this message inspiring, I encourage you to check out our other daily devotions for more uplifting and insightful reflections. May you continue to draw near to God and experience His abundant blessings in your life. Blessings to you!
