Genesis 42:35 As they were emptying their sacks, there in each man’s sack was his pouch of silver! When they and their father saw the money pouches, they were frightened.
Commentary says of Jacob’s actions in this section, “At this point, Jacob could not bear to trust God again. He lived protecting himself against future pain.” I’ve got to admit that I am struggling a bit with that quote.
Genesis 42:36 Their father Jacob said to them, “You have deprived me of my children. Joseph is no more and Simeon is no more, and now you want to take Benjamin. Everything is against me!”
I try to protect myself and my family from pain and loss in myriad ways–planning, packing extras of things, doing the work that needs doing, making sure my family knows how much I love them. I’ve never thought of any of that as not trusting God. Is it?
Genesis 42:37 Then Reuben said to his father, “You may put both of my sons to death if I do not bring him back to you. Entrust him to my care, and I will bring him back.”
Precious Savior, What is the line between being prepared and not trusting You to take care of us? How do I walk that line faithfully, making sure I do my part to be prepared without crossing into the territory of unbelief? Help me to navigate that line steadfastly. Always. Amen.
Genesis 42:38 But Jacob said, “My son will not go down there with you; his brother is dead and he is the only one left. If harm comes to him on the journey you are taking, you will bring my gray head down to the grave in sorrow.”
Have a blessed day.