GENESIS 43:19-34
Joseph was unable to restrain himself, and he "made haste; for his bowels [heart] did
yearn upon his brother: and he sought where to weep; and he entered into his chamber,
and wept there" (Gen. 43:30). What a moving account of the love of Joseph for
Benjamin! Finally gaining control of himself, Joseph "washed his face, and went out, and
refrained [controlled] himself, and said, Set on bread" (v. 31).
Joseph still did not identify himself to his brothers. God's program was not yet
completed. Joseph was well trained to wait for God's time, regardless of how difficult it
was because of his own emotions.
It is highly significant to observe the way they were seated at the meal. Most likely, the
reason they marveled was that they were astonished that this Egyptian ruler knew their
ages and was able to seat them in the right order. This especially would bring fear to the
brothers, for they would wonder what else he knew about them.
The brothers were tested at the meal regarding their attitude toward their younger
brother. They had been envious of Joseph because of their father's special love for him.
They might well have felt the same way toward Benjamin.
How do you respond when someone receives more honor than you?
And whether one member suffer, all the members suffer with it; or one member be
honoured, all the members rejoice with it (1 Cor. 12:26).
Theodore Epp
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