Genesis 42:22 Reuben replied, “Didn’t I tell you not to sin against the boy? But you wouldn’t listen! Now we must give an accounting for his blood.”
Commentary says about Joseph’s actions, “We don’t know how much he sensed it, but this was all guided by God.” My first reaction was, “What?!? How do you know? How did *he* know?” However, after my initial knee jerk reaction, I pondered my own life and actions and God’s guidance.
Genesis 42:23 They did not realize that Joseph could understand them, since he was using an interpreter.
Many times have I reached out to someone, sent a note of encouragement, because God laid that person on my heart. I try to pay attention and act when I feel His nudge. And many times I’ve heard “I needed that” or “Your timing is perfect” in response to listening to His still small voice and reaching out.
Genesis 42:24 He turned away from them and began to weep, but then came back and spoke to them again. He had Simeon taken from them and bound before their eyes.
Precious Savior, Thank You for the ways in which You guide us–big and small, known and unknown. Help us to get better at looking for Your presence, at seeing where You are leading and guiding us. Help us to be Your hands and feet in this world. Amen.
Genesis 42:25-26 Joseph gave orders to fill their bags with grain, to put each man’s silver back in his sack, and to give them provisions for their journey. After this was done for them, they loaded their grain on their donkeys and left.
Have a blessed day.