Genesis 43
SIBGenesis 43:27
Joseph still retained his tender affection to his father and his brethren; but in order to fulfil the designs of Providence, he had been restrained of God from inquiring after them till his brethren came into Egypt.Ver
Genesis 43:32
The Egyptians detested enting with such as fed unto the animals which they worshipped, or who neglected their manner of dressing their victuals
Genesis 43:33
They marvelled that he, who had before used them so roughly, should now use them so kindly
Genesis 43:34
Benjamin’s large portion might be intended, not only to do him honour, but also to try his temperance, and whether his brethren would envy him on account of his distinguished preferment
REFLECTIONS UPON CHAP. XLIII.—The trials, the sore trials, of God’s principal favourites, may often last long, and sink deep, before their deliverance come. But in difficult circumstances, where something dear to us is at stake it is good to take the advice of others, who are less interested. What a mercy is bread, that nothing earthly can supply the want of it! What then can supply the want of Jesus, the bread of life? In the use of every prudent endeavour to avoid danger, it is proper to commit our affairs to the Lord, and submit ourselves entirely to his disposal; but men, when their consciences are overcharged with guilt, are apt to fear without ground, even where kindness is intended. In every circumstance, honesty is the best policy, and every success in business should be regarded as a treasure given by God to us. What tender passions possess the noblest of souls! Their earnest prayers to God for our welfare are a distinguished kindness. And, if persons with whom we deal have whimsical scruples, it is becoming to bear with them in love.—But, O my soul, forget not Jesus thy brother! Let all my troubles and wants oblige be to return to him, as my alone Saviour. And, though he lift me up, and cast me down again, fear not, only believe, and thou shalt see the glory of God!