God’s Plan of Grace

DAY 15
10-4-09
GENESIS 43-44-45


Good Morning!

I am stunned by the drama of this episode. Is Joseph toying with his brothers? Why is he doing this? Why doesn’t he just reveal who he is from the start? With everything that Joseph has been through, it is clear to him that God is in control. He knows it. But his brothers do not realize it yet. But one thing is apparently clear to Judah, “God is punishing us for our sins.” (44:16)

All the food in the world can’t change hard hearts. Joseph’s brothers are a part of God’s plan too; and they have not been through what Joseph has. The fear they are experiencing has caused them to confess their sins. However, there is one thing left to experience that will bring the family close together; and reunite all of them - they need to experience grace.

Joseph’s words to his guilty brothers offer the same thing that Joseph was given for his sins – grace. "I am Joseph, your brother, whom you sold into slavery in Egypt. But don't be upset, and don't be angry with yourselves for selling me to this place. It was God who sent me here ahead of you to preserve your lives.” (45:4-6)

We are a part of the plan, too. We are the beneficiaries of this plan. God’s plan is to bring us back together with him by his wonderful grace. Our sins separated us. His grace through our faith in Jesus brought us back together.

This family still has a long way to go. At least they will go through the next struggles together.

Barry

Rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation. Romans 5:11