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.
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