What To Learn From Joseph A Bible Character (Part 7)

 

Joseph's cup

Joseph got his servant to fill up his brothers' bags with the grains, and put their money back into their sack. Also, the servant was to drop Joseph's cup in Benjamin's bag. And in the morning they let the brothers go home. However, after a while, Joseph sent his servant to chase after them and inquire about his cup.

The cup is found in Benjamin's sack

When Joseph's servant got to them and inquired about the cup, they denied having it. Then they asked him to check and that whoever has it will be killed and others become his slave. But the servant said that only the one with the cup will be his servant. And lo and behold, they found the cup in Benjamin's sack. Then the brothers tore their clothes, packed their donkeys, and returned to Egypt. And when they got to Joseph's house, Joseph told them to return to their father and that he will have Benjamin as his slave.

Judah intercedes for Benjamin

Judah explained to Joseph that Benjamin was the only surviving child of his mother and a child of their father's old age. And that they can't go back to their father without Benjamin. This was because their father would die if they ever returned without him. Furthermore, Judah pleaded that he himself be detained while Benjamin is released to go home.

 

Lessons

• One can never be too sure of anybody or anything, except God. Therefore, be careful how you vouch for anyone or anything. Joseph's brothers were too sure that they, sons of Jacob, can never steal. Unfortunately, they didn't consider the events that could have taken place before they carried their sacks. Read more...
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What To Learn From Joseph A Bible Character (Part 6)

 

Jacob releases Benjamin to go to Egypt

When the food they bought earlier needed replacement, the issue of Benjamin going back to Egypt with his brothers arose again. Though Jacob still didn't want to release Benjamin, he had to do so for the good of the entire family. This is because the governor in Egypt made it clear, that they shouldn't come before him without their youngest brother. And the whole family would starve if they didn't go to buy food from Egypt. So, Judah promised to be responsible for Benjamin.

 

The brothers return to Egypt

When Joseph's brothers returned to Egypt, Joseph instructed his servants to take them to his house for dinner. The brothers reported to Joseph's servants that they'd found their monies in their sacs out of fear. This was because they didn't know why they were taken to the governor's house. But the servant told them that they received their money; so, they do not owe.

 

Joseph receives his siblings

When Joseph returned home, he saw his brothers and his heart longed for Benjamin, his mother's son. However, he didn't disclose his identity to them. Also, he made them sit according to their ages, which surprised them greatly. And he sent more food to his brother Benjamin. They drank and were merry with him.

 

Lessons

• Joseph was a man with a large heart and a forgiving spirit. These are very vital if you're to pursue peace with all men as God instructed. Joseph treated his brothers so well in spite of what they did to him. Surely, he walked in love towards them. Read more...