Year in the Bible
Week Four: Given
This week, our theme is Given.
Joseph has the gift of interpreting dreams. That gift blesses prisoners and kings. God creates us with gifts that can bless others, wherever we find ourselves. We don't hide those gifts or take credit for them. Instead, we use them because they ultimately point back to God.
Paul makes a similar point in Galatians: we are justified in no one but Christ. For all things—gifts, life, and salvation—we look to God.
This Week's Readings: Genesis 41–50; Mark 16; Galatians 1–4; Psalms 24, 108, 25
A Few Things to Notice
Genesis concludes with Joseph's story and explains how Israel ends up in Egypt. Throughout Joseph's life, we see God as a saving God, and that saving work extends beyond Israel. God's promise to bless one nation for the sake of other nations continues.
Mark ends with the Good News of resurrection: It is a new day!
Then we move into Galatians, where Paul insists that salvation comes not through our works but through grace.
Read, Reflect, and Discuss
This week's discussion centers on Genesis 41:14–16 and Galatians 2:16–21.
- What are your initial reactions to these readings?
- What surprised, challenged, bothered, or encouraged you this week?
- What connections do you see between these passages?
- Joseph's life has taken a tragic turn—he is kidnapped, sold, enslaved, falsely accused, and imprisoned. Yet he continues contributing to the lives of others. How do circumstances sometimes block us from seeing or sharing the good in our lives?
- If God creates us with gifts to share, what keeps us from sharing them?
- Joseph gives God credit for his ability to interpret dreams. What is the balance in your life between giving thanks to God and taking ownership of your life?
- Why is it so tempting to make faith and salvation our responsibility? Is it about credit, accomplishment, control, or something else?
- Have you ever had someone take credit for something you did? How did that feel?
- Paul says salvation is not our responsibility—it is given to us. How is this good news? How is it challenging?
- If salvation is about what Jesus has done for you, what role do your actions have in your faith and relationship with God?
Going Further
Explore Bible Project resources on Genesis 12–50 and Galatians, as well as Luther Seminary's Enter the Bible.
What gifts have you been given—and how might you use them this week to bless someone else?
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