PODCAST
An Unlikely Rescue
November 10th, 2021
Genesis 37:23-36
A cistern was a deep pit usually used to tap into a source of water or to catch rainwater. It was about 15-20 feet deep with an opening of 2-3 feet. It had a stone lid to protect from contaminants. While Reuben averted the outright murder of Joseph, being thrown into an empty cistern was cruel punishment and certain death due to hunger and exposure to freezing temperatures. While eating a bit of self-congratulatory lunch, they see an opportunity to make some money by replacing murder for greed. They sold Joseph to the traveling merchants, plotted to lie to their father, went to the extent of killing an animal to bloody Joseph’s coat, and washed their hands of their little brother.
I wonder how Joseph felt after sitting in a dark, covered cistern. Did he feel impending death when the lid came off and he was drawn back out of the pit? God was working even while his brothers were plotting evil. God still rescues us today. When days are dark and there seems to be no hope, look up! God is sending you a lifeline!
Author: Carol Rittenhouse
November 10th, 2021 at 8:34 am
Another encouraging devotional.