S – God said, “I am God, the God of your father. Do not be afraid to go down to Egypt, for I will make you into a great nation there. 4 I will go down with you to Egypt, and I will also bring you back. Joseph will close your eyes when you die
Genesis 46:3–4 CSB
O – Commentary:
I am God The word for God here is el, which connects this vision with Jacob’s earlier divine encounters (31:13; 33:20; 35:1, 3). This may explain why the name “Jacob” is used for the verbal call.
the God of your father The word for “God” here is elohim.
I will make you a great nation This element of the divine covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob confirms for Jacob (12:1–3; 15:1–6; 26:4, 24; 28:3) that he will not forfeit the promise by leaving the promised land.
A – God is preserving all of Jacob’s family by having them leave the Promised Land but ensuring him they will return. Ironically, God doesn’t tell him about the middle part – the slavery and suffering they will endure while there. God tells him who He is and what he will do. We need to be comfortable that God doesn’t give us a full picture of what is to come.
R – Heavenly Father, you are God and there is no other. Empower us to trust you when it is hard. We do not see the whole picture like you do but we can put our faith and trust in you. Give us strength to walk in that today.
Just Add Water . Chris Bonham 