Genesis 46:34 God’s People Preserved Through Being Set Apart

Genesis 46:34

God’s People Preserved Through Being Set Apart

Joseph told his brothers and family:

“We are shepherds.”

This was more than a simple description of their occupation.

The Egyptians disliked shepherds.
Their culture and way of life were very different.

Yet surprisingly, God used that very difference.

God allowed Israel’s family to live separately in Goshen so they would not completely blend into Egyptian culture.

Sometimes we wonder:

“Why do I feel different?”
“Why do I not fully fit into the world around me?”

But Scripture reminds us that not every separation is negative.

Some forms of being set apart are:

• God’s protection,
• God’s calling,
• and part of God’s greater plan.

Israel lived in Egypt,
but they did not become Egypt.

And in that separated place,
God caused them to grow into a great nation.

We also live in the world today,
yet God calls us not to lose our identity.

God’s people are those who live in the world,
while still belonging to Him.