Title: Religious decision/Genesis 43:1-34
Contents Hymn of the Week: Chapter 439 June 2nd, 1995
Title: Religious Decision Youngjin Church Dawn
Main text: Genesis 43:1-34 47.HWP
Jacob's family was still in anxiety and distress because of the sins of their unrepentant sons. However, Jacob, in the predicament of the retreat Yannan, decided that if he lost even his most beloved son, Benjamin, he had to lose it. Jacob did two things in that situation
1. Preparing a gift (11, 12).
Gifts were one of the essential courtesy when meeting people in high positions (1 Samuel 16:20; 17:18).
This was to win Jacob's favor out of fear of the rulers of Egypt, but what he could do as a human being was also to show his sincerity and prudence to put forth the utmost effort. Of course, it was also to show sincerity and prudence to do his best to do his favor out of fear of the ruler of Egypt, Joseph. Of course, there is no doubt that Joseph, the ruler of Egypt, missed his father and brothers more than his gifts. However, believers must do their best to do everything they can in their circumstances and have good zeal. It is not correct faith to seek only God's grace without making any effort.
2. Total surrender to God (14).
After doing what he could, Jacob finally turned to God for everything. He sent Benjamin with the other brethren, leaving everything to Almighty God. He prayed earnestly for God's grace to bring all his sons to Canaan safely. Jacob's faith in making the best decision in a difficult situation and finally surrendering his life to God also shows us the essence of true faith. How do we deal with difficult situations and what decisions do we make? How much do we trust the Lord?
fear and peace
Joseph sees his brothers and Benjamin and instructs the steward to lead them home and prepare a festival. The brothers were very afraid at this, and the steward gave them peace and comfort.
1. Fearful brethren (18-22).
Joseph had a clear reason for inviting them to his house. He wanted to talk with them about the circumstances of his hometown. But they were very afraid then. The reason for the invitation was unknown, and it was even more surprising that the prime minister of Egypt had invited them to dinner. If that were the norm, it would be a very proud and wonderful privilege. But to them such privileges were no pleasure. They always had a sense of guilt and guilt about selling their younger brother. In this way, sin turns joy into pain and fear.
2. A steward of peace (23).
The steward gives comfort and peace to Joseph's brothers, who in fear are trying to renounce their innocence. He told me that it was God's work. However, they did not understand those words. Those who do not know that God is God today only see God as an object of fear, but in reality God is a God of love and mercy, a source of comfort and peace.
3. Stewardship's Faith.
The steward's words and deeds are noteworthy. Had he not feared God himself, he would not have been able to say such a thing. He must have seen and learned faith in God from Joseph. This would have convinced him that the God of Joseph was living and true.
Prayer / Gold: For Pastors
For the preparation of the Word and life / For the pastors and missionaries of this land