The story of Jacob’s sons continues Genesis’ theme of the sovereignty of God. God continues to work through sinful people and He continues to operate in ways we would not expect. The point of working through sinful people and through seemingly odd ways appears to be that God is the one who is clearly in control.
God has His hand on a sinful Jacob and on a sinful Rachel even as they suffer greatly and make poor choices. Rachel tries to control God and have children through another woman. This only leads to jealousy but God is not done. He eventually blesses her and Jacob with Joseph. Joseph becomes the promised child, the elected choice, the beloved heir. This has less to do with Joseph and more to do with God’s sovereignty.
The point is that God is in control and we are not. Everyone, this means that we are to wait upon him and not try to force his hand. Pastors, this means that we are to make wise and righteous decisions but rest in the fact that God is the one who builds his Church. Friends, this means that you should be prepared to give an answer for the hope that you have and be strategic with your conversations with those you love, but God is the one who will save your friend or family member. God also knows your needs and will take care of you. God is in control and we are not.
