Genesis 44-45: Setting the Stage

Joseph continues in the testing of his brothers' character- putting them in horrible situations to see how they will respond. When Joseph frames them for stealing from him, they are forced to choose between losing their brother, Benjamin, or standing in his place. Judah (surprisingly!) shows great courage and character in the midst of this scary situation. He knows that if Benjamin, the only other son of Israel's beloved wife Rachel, does not return from their journey to Egypt, his father will be devastated. So Judah volunteers to take Benjamin's place in punishment- a lifetime of service in Egypt.

When Joseph sees this display of affection and loyalty to his father, he is moved to tears. He reveals himself as Joseph, their brother, and everyone is shocked! Joseph has the perfect opportunity to rub his success in his brothers' faces, but instead he tells them,

"You see God sent me here ahead of you to preserve life...So it wasn't really you who sent me here, but God." Genesis 45:5, 8, The Voice

God had orchestrated an amazing plan for Joseph to provide food for millions of people in the midst of famine. He had made sure that Joseph ended up in just the right place at just the right time, "to preserve life." What an amazing testimony!

Anyone can see that the events of Joseph's life were not swayed much by the ill-intent of others. There were so many obstacles thrown in Joseph's path to second-in-command. But God knew what He wanted to do with Joseph and made sure that he continued on the path He wanted him to take.

In addition to saving the lives of all the current people surrounding Egypt during the seven year famine, God also was setting the scene for his "master plan"- the fulfillment of His promise to Abraham. Because Joseph's family would now join him in Egypt- given land and homes and food- they would be provided with the perfect place to prosper and multiply in safety. And it will be here in Egypt that the nation of Israel is born!