Genesis Chapter 42.
This morning I want to focus on the distressed look Joseph must have had on his face when his brothers sold him into slavery. And not just the look but the Brokenness within him. The memory he had of his brothers was probably bewilderment and hatredness. The memory the brothers had of Joseph what's a yelling brother begging and pleading. All this makes me think of what kind of memory do we leave those around us? I don't want my last memory left with my wife to be one of an argument. I want her to know I love her. I want her to know she is valuable. The same with my daughters. I want them to know I believe in them and in the gifts God has given them. I don't want to have a memory of hate left or disappointment. I want them to know how special they are and how much I love them even if we have our differences. I never want to give up on them. With my grandsons, they're getting to the age where their spirits can be crushed or their confidence knocked down. And when that happens you can see it on their faces. I want to be able to speak love and life into their lives. I want to remind them of how special they are and how awesome they are. I want to build up their confidence and their spirit. I want them to be the best they can be for Jesus. I don't want their memory of me to be a negative comment that crushed their spirit but one that says Papa built them up. To go one step further, it is a challenge to me to try and be more conscience in building others up no matter who it is. Having said all that, may I not forget the power of God who has the power to heal those whose spirits were broken and to bring forgiveness and restoration where it is needed.
Jacob is obviously fearful about losing Benjamin. He probably still blamed himself for what he thinks happened to Joseph when he sent him out to check on his brothers years ago and he doesn’t want to make the same mistake again. Jacob’s sons also become fearful when they find their money in the sacks with the food that they thought they purchased. Joseph isn’t taking their money, but he’s going to give them a test to see if their hearts have changed since they sold him out. God doesn’t want us to live in fear, but to trust Him.
Another thing that I pondered on today is how hurtful it may have sounded to Reuben when he heard Jacob say these words in verse 38: “My son shall not go down with you, for his brother is dead, and he is the only one left.” Not only did Jacob not trust Reuben to keep Benjamin safe, but he was clearly sending the message that Rachel’s sons were more important to him than his other sons. Ever feel insignificant like chopped liver? Reuben probably wasn’t feeling very loved at that moment.
Here’s the link to Fearful.
https://youtu.be/YZgMuceEKPk
Joseph didn’t accept his brother’s money. Neither will Jesus accept our efforts to buy our own salvation. It’s all about grace.
Joseph’s story reminds me whenever I am experiencing difficulties, to stand on the knowledge that Paul shared in Romans 8:28 – all things work together to them that love God, to them called according to His purpose. Be patient, wait on the Lord, and stand on that truth.
Joseph is holding all the cards…
Anger and hatred could have easily changed the outcome, I still battle with ugliness.
The emotions Jacob must have felt must have been excruciating
(Of course I read and I know what happens) sorry haha
PB.. You motivate me
Great point about Reuban
Reading all the responses are so awesome , and love the accountability.
Sorry I’ve been getting behind lately crew! I usually find myself a day behind each of you. I apologize !!
I see Joseph and the life he has lived as all part of God’s greater plan. The pain, the trials, the triumphs, and the trust. He has endured much more than most 30 year olds go through, yet he never loses his trust in the Lord. I agree that Jacob has a much stronger love for Joseph and Benjamin than his other sons. I am anxious to see how it will all end up!