TOPIC: A TEST OF CHARACTER

Opening Prayer: Oh Lord, grant me divine guidance as I read and meditate on your word in Jesus name.

Scripture: Genesis 44: 1 – 17

Question(s) for Reflection
• What does the passage teach about God the Father, or God the Son or God the Holy Spirit?
• Is there any warning for me to heed?

Joseph, having entertained his brothers, dismissed them. They had been honoured guests at a wonderful feast, and the generous ruler had sent them on their way with their sacks full of grain. They were not accused of stealing the grain money. Simeon had been released. Benjamin was freely travelling with them. They are going home at last. It was a cause for rejoicing, but it was only for a very brief moment. They were brought back in a greater fright than any they had been in yet.

Observe, the method Joseph used to humble his brothers (v.2). Why do you think Joseph placed the silver cup in the sack of Benjamin? Joseph supposed use of this cup for divination may be one of the pranks he played on his brothers. For us, God’s Word clearly forbids the practice of divination (see Deuteronomy 18:10‐12). The thread of guilt continues to run through all Joseph’s brothers’ interactions with him (v.16).

Only God knows how many times they had felt this pang of guilt in the past twenty years. Sin can really torment and keep bugging us. It keeps us in perpetual bondage until we confess and deal with it. What was Joseph’s response to Judah (v.17) and why?

• Any new insight or reinforcement of what you already know?

Closing Prayer
• Thank you, Lord, for teaching me a lesson in integrity of heart. Grant me grace to always live an honest life.

Offer a prayer of faith in line with
Jeremiah 31:17; Jeremiah 13‐15

Daily Guide 14th August 2022 | Scripture Union