Genesis 46:31-34 “Then Joseph said to his brothers and to his father’s household, ‘I will go up and speak to Pharaoh and will say to him, “My brothers and my father’s household, who were living in the land of Canaan, have come to me.” … When Pharaoh calls you in and asks, “What is your occupation?” you should answer, “Your servants have tended livestock from our boyhood on, just as our fathers did.” Then you will be allowed to settle in the region of Goshen, for all shepherds are detestable to the Egyptians.’”

The land of Goshen was a fertile plains area away from the capital and good for livestock. But it was far away from Pharaoh’s primary interest. The Egyptians had no use for sheep as sacrifice or food. The lifestyle of a shepherd made no sense to Egyptians who were builders, merchants, educators and warriors. Shepherds lead their flocks to pasture and water every day. It is 7/24 work to watch over them, guard and protect them, count them, tend to the weak and the sick ones, retrieve the wandering ones and sometimes even sleep with them. Sheep are helpless, dumb, and vulnerable. Figuratively, God considers himself as the shepherd of Israel. King David got his training as a shepherd. Jesus is the Good and the Chief Shepherd. Kings as leaders of the people are called shepherds. Ministers, both foolish and good, were considered shepherds.

Principle: Accepting the responsibility of authority over people is a divine assignment to be handled with diligence and high commitment, even when it results low satisfaction levels.

In business, problems with people (whether customers, contractors or employees) are a huge part of business frustration and attention. In families, problems with people are the norm. The challenges of people are no secret to God. Solutions for plants and animals are simple. The solutions for humanity are complicated but God solves those problems too.

Discussion:

1.The role of a business leader over the people who work for them is often frustrating. How has this been true for you?

2. If you are a business owner, supervisor or parent, what is the most frustrating part of supervising people?

3. What are some of the benefits when supervising has been done well?