- Scripture: Genesis 43:1–15
- The Anchor: “And their father Israel said to them, ‘If it must be so, then do this: take some of the choice fruits in the land in your bags, and carry a present down to the man… May God Almighty grant you mercy before the man, and may he send back your other brother and Benjamin. And as for me, if I am bereaved of my children, I am bereaved.'” – Genesis 43:11, 14 (ESV)
The family runs out of food and Jacob sends them to go out again to Egypt to get food. However, the brothers remind him that if they want food from Egypt, they would have to bring Benjamin as well. Jacob desperately asks why the brothers treated him so badly as to tell the mysterious “Egyptian prime minister” about Benjamin. They respond by telling Jacob the events that happened again. Judah promises his life and the blame for the safe return of Benjamin. Finally, Jacob agrees to send Benjamin and he also sends many more things, such as choice fruits and double the money that they brought last time. Jacob prays a blessing over them and he starts complaining about how he is bereaved again.
Jacob’s response is not a response of faith. He is extremely reluctant to send Benjamin, which is fair, but when he finally agrees, he doesn’t do it out of a trusting heart, but he does it expecting it to fail, and he goes back to sulking. He also blames them for hurting him by making him send his beloved son. Although I see this as bad, I see myself in Jacob. Oftentimes, I get difficult to work with when I don’t get my way, and I often complain to show my woes.
Although the road was rough, the conclusion is that Jacob sent Benjamin. However annoying we are to God, God works with our sins, our disobedience, and our reluctance to do good things. In the end, God’s plan is God’s plan, and it will be done. I think it can be a lot easier if we just submit ourselves to God instead of trying to go off and do our own thing. Jacob should have trusted in his sons and trusted in God.
Reflection
- You recognized that Jacob sent Benjamin out of reluctance and despair rather than pure trust, a feeling you’ve identified in your own life when things don’t go your way. When you find yourself “sulking” or complaining during a difficult season, what is one way you can pivot toward a heart of submission to God instead?
- You noted that even when we are difficult or disobedient, God’s sovereign plan moves forward regardless. How does it change your perspective to know that God works through our imperfections to fulfill His will, rather than waiting for us to be perfect before He starts working?
Prayer
Lord, thank You for being patient with me even when I am stubborn, reluctant, or prone to complaining like Jacob. Forgive me for the times I try to control outcomes rather than trusting in Your sovereignty. Help me to submit my life to You more easily, knowing that You are working for my good and Your glory, even through my own weaknesses. Amen.