Scripture to Read: Genesis 42:1-25
In today's devotion, we continue to notice God's theme found throughout Genesis, man's fallenness, and God's faithfulness. As the world comes to Egypt to buy grain, Jacob (Israel) sends his sons, except for Benjamin out of fear that he may lose him just like he lost Joseph (Genesis 42:4). Jacob's fear was soon realized as his sons were commanded by Joseph to return home and bring Benjamin back with them to Egypt (Genesis 42:15-16, 19-20). Twenty years had passed since Joseph's brothers sold him into slavery. Although they did not recognize him, Joseph knew them. Undoubtedly, there was a struggle in Joseph's heart to take revenge on his brothers, as we read in Genesis 42:9-17 how he speaks harshly to them, accuses them of being spies, and puts them into custody. However, Joseph would not take revenge because of his love and fear of God (Genesis 42:18). Joseph had a strong fellowship with God which led him to release his brothers, except for Simeon as Joseph wanted them to bring Benjamin back to him. Even as Joseph's brothers unknowingly came to buy grain from their brother, the dream that they hated him for in Genesis 37:5-11 was being fulfilled as God had planned (Genesis 42:9). This week God will unfold for us the story of Joseph and his brothers. As God unpacks Genesis 42-46 for us, we need to learn, as Joseph did, to rest in the faithfulness of God and make sure we do not miss what He's teaching us through the tests and trials of this life. Walking in constant fellowship with Him carries us through each day.
Challenge & Application
1. What does God teach us about His faithfulness and our response to Him?
2. How does Joseph’s response to his brothers help you understand the struggle of responding faithfully when you are wronged?
Don’t forget to pray using the A.C.T.S. (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication) method!