Clues to our confusing Circumstances

 Read Genesis 43.

The plot continues to unfold, piece by piece.  In each meeting, Joseph interjected more clues for his brothers.  In Chapter 42, there are five of them.
-He asked about their father.
-He subtly inquired about Benjamin.
-He stated that he feared God.
-He forced their return by holding Simeon.
-He secretly returned their money.

Here in Chapter 43, Jacob was torn between the fear of losing another son and the reality of the famine.  His family was in jeopardy either way.  He reluctantly did what he had to do with hope in the mercy of God Almighty (v.14).  It is interesting that in his depression, Jacob does not mention the unconditional covenant God made to Abraham, to Isaac and to him.  The promises of God included innumerable descendants, the land, and that his family would be a blessing to all nations.  Nothing can pull us out of an emotional pit like reviewing the word of God and trusting God's faithfulness.

The brothers went to Egypt in fear.  But five more clues emerged that only added to their confusion.
-The servant revealed that he knew the money had been returned to them and gave God the credit.
-Joseph again asked about their father.
-Joseph asked about their youngest brother.
-Without asking, the men were seated according to their age.
-Benjamin's food portion was five times that of his brothers.

Was Joseph playing a cruel game with his family?  Was this his way of seeking revenge?  Was he being nice to them only to set them up for disaster?  The answer to all those questions is no.  Joseph was in a unique position to test their sincerity.  He already knew they felt guilty (42:21-23), but were they repentant of their sin?

Quite often God uses our circumstantial confusion to help us deal with unconfessed sin, to seek to resolve fellowship with Him and our relationship with others.  It is not a cruel game but the deliberate work of a loving heavenly Father.  In hindsight, we can see the clues and thank Him for pursuing us.