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A Genesis Flood

A Genesis Flood

Genesis 45:1-2

Then Joseph could not control himself before all those who stood by him. … And he wept aloud, so that the Egyptians heard it, and the household of Pharaoh heard it.

Now there’s a paradox for you: “Joseph could not control himself.” Think of it: if you’re searching the Old Testament registry of heroes for someone who exemplifies self-control, Joseph’s it, right? Day after day, Potiphar’s wife tempted him to commit adultery, but Joseph mastered his lust. Then, after being falsely accused and thrown into a dungeon, he tempered his bitterness and even sought to encourage other prisoners. Not to mention the seismic force of will he displayed when his brothers showed up at his doorstep begging for bread and he somehow managed to quell his fury by keeping his sword in its sheath. No wonder Joseph was a great master over households and prisons and entire kingdoms. He knew how to master himself.

But that’s why I love watching him lose control here, friend. Because even an oak is a twig in the ocean. And when God’s grace pours down from heaven and overwhelms us this suddenly, this rapturously, this thoroughly, what can we do but get swept away in the flood?