Bible Chapter: Genesis 43

Because the Bible is practical, here are some statements to get you thinking.

1.  Write one or two key thoughts that come from today’s reading.
    The famine continued and it was time to return to Egypt for more food.  They kept delaying the trip because of Joseph’s requirement that Benjamin come on the next trip.  Israel struggled and was in agony at the thought of sending Benjamin, lest anything should happen to him.  Judah reminded his father of the impossibility of getting any more food if Benjamin didn’t go with them.  I can imagine there was quite a powerful “discussion” between father and son.  Finally he said to take Benjamin and, “if I am bereaved of my children, I am bereaved”.  I’m sure there was great sorrow in sending the sons off on this trip.
    Upon their arrival in Egypt there was still fear in the hearts of the brothers.  Joseph had them taken to his house and given a meal.  They told Joseph about receiving their money back and they were returning it.  They were still afraid.  As this story unfolds I am reminded many times about the long term impact of doing evil.  These brothers lived for decades with fear over treating their brother with such contempt as to sell him as a slave.  Any short term fun or benefits a person receives in doing something evil are simply not worth the long term consequences.

2.  What can I apply in my life from the reading?
    Judah was willing to take the responsibility for Benjamin’s safe return.  Learning to take responsibility is one of the issues of maturity.  The decision to sell Joseph was a choice made by immature and jealous people.  Eventually these brothers were learning the importance of good decisions and responsible living.  Jealousy is not how God designed us to live.  Maturity is happy when something good happens to another person.

3.  How can I help someone?
    I want to help people be mature in their lifestyle.  We live in a prosperous culture.  It is easy to get things, live for possessions and fun.  That only lasts for a short while, and soon pay day comes.  There comes a time when we have to pay for our fun.  There comes a time when the free lunch we enjoy will no longer be available.  Self-centeredness only leads to future problems.  Maturity is better.