But God sent me ahead of you to preserve for you a remnant on earth and to save your lives by a great deliverance.
Genesis 45:7 NIV
In Genesis 45, during the famine in Joseph’s time, a profound truth emerges as Joseph speaks to his brothers. He tells them not to feel distressed or angry about selling him into slavery. Instead, he explains that God sent him ahead to preserve lives. This moment reveals how God’s personal plan operates in both broad and intimate ways.
Joseph first describes a general purpose—to save lives. God’s plan extended beyond Joseph’s family, ensuring the survival of Egyptians and people from many nations who came to Egypt for food. At first glance, it might seem this was the only reason for Joseph’s journey.
However, in Genesis 45:6-7, Joseph reveals a more personal aspect of God’s plan. He says, “For two years now, there has been famine in the land, and for the next five years, there will be no plowing and reaping. But God sent me ahead of you to preserve for you a remnant on earth and to save your lives by a great deliverance.” These words shift the focus. They show how God orchestrated events to fulfil His covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob through Jacob’s descendants.
God’s promise required fulfillment through Jacob’s family. Joseph affirms that God sent him ahead not just for a broad purpose but for a specific one—to preserve a remnant and save his own family. This highlights how God’s personal plan is vast yet intricately detailed for individuals.
This passage reminds us that even when God works on a large scale, He also has a specific purpose for each person. From an outsider’s perspective, His work may seem like a general act of divine intervention. Yet, every event carries a unique purpose for someone. We are not just part of a grand scheme; we are personally included in His divine plan.
Within God’s grand design lies a personal assignment, a specific provision, and a unique plan for me. While major events unfold around me, I must not overlook what God is doing in my life. His intentions are not impersonal; they are crafted with me in mind.
Joseph recognised that although his brothers played a role in his suffering, God orchestrated everything. In the same way, I must trust that every circumstance fits into God’s personal plan for my life. Even in difficult situations, I can find assurance that God is at work, aligning events according to His purpose.
I cannot assume that God’s actions are only general, with no personal implications. Instead, I must seek to understand what He is specifically calling me to do within His divine plan. Recognising this personal dimension helps me cherish His plan even more. It ensures I do not miss my day of divine visitation or fail to embrace my unique role simply because His actions seem widespread.
I must carefully search out my place in God’s personal plan. By walking fully in His calling, I align myself with His will and step into the destiny He has prepared. This journey requires faith, diligence, and trust in His perfect timing.