Genesis 42

Genesis 42:7

Joseph dealt thus harshly with them, (1) That he might hereby procure a full account of the present state of his father’s family: (2) That they might be the more thoroughly convinced of, and humbled for, their former sin; particularly their hatred, intended murder, and actual selling of himself: (3) To enhance their joy when he should discover himself: (4) To render the fulfilment of his own dreams the more conspicuous

REFLECTIONS UPON CHAP. XLII.—What a mercy it is to be assured that in the Canaan above there is no scarcity, no want! And here on earth, one country can ordinarily supply the wants of another! But is it not strange that the accursed descendants of Ham should have plenty, when God’s peculiar favourites, the seed of Abraham, are in want! Yet even this is evidently to bring about his purposes for his people, and to shew us that all the mysteries of his providence shall display his power and wisdom, and in the issue bring greater benefits to his redeemed; and in God’s time the most malignant opposers of his designs are made willingly to submit thereto, and accomplish the same. But, while trusting in the Lord, parents and masters ought to provide, with great care, for the external subsistence, and how much more for the religious edification, of their families! What harsh measures are sometimes necessary to awaken, and thoroughly convince, such consciences as have been long asleep and hardened in sin! But the fear of God, prevalent in the heart, effectually determines men to equity and benevolence, and restrains from tyrannical cruelty and injustice. Trying providences often recall sin to men’s remembrance, and render that bitter which was formerly sweet. And it is indeed a needful stroke that awakens the conscience to a serious remembrance of former sins. When we share with others in their calamity, it is no small comfort to know ourselves clear of their guilt. How often God writes men’s sin on their troubles! These Hebrews had sold their brother for money, and now his money fills them with dread; guilty consciences being subject to perpetual alarms. There is need of constant preparation for trials, as we often meet with them when and where they were least expected. But mournful is the case of families when mutual trust in one another is weakened. Surely there is great need of an holy disengagement from all creatures; for, in proportion to our love to them, will be our fears of losing them, and our distress in parting from them. Very often the best of saints distress themselves with needless fears, that all things are against them, when they are really, nay, remarkably working for their good. And no wonder, when the very children, from whom distinguished comforts are justly expected, so often, by their wickedness, bring their aged parents with sorrow to the grave.—But now, my soul, when Jesus deals roughly with me, to convince and humble my proud spirit, or to try my love to himself and his Father, and to my fellow saints, let me always acknowledge my offences with brokenness of heart; and let me bless him who hath so planned, and so executes his schemes of redemption, that I am always obliged to return to himself, as my great sundier, in time of need