2006-02-10 - Sometimes It's Not What You Think

In Search of a Father's Love - Part 2

When Jacob saw that there was grain in Egypt, Jacob said to his sons, "Why do you look at one another?" And he said, "Indeed I have heard that there is grain in Egypt; go down to that place and buy for us there, that we may live and not die." So Joseph's ten brothers went down to buy grain in Egypt. But Jacob did not send Joseph's brother Benjamin with his brothers, for he said, "Lest some calamity befall him." And the sons of Israel went to buy grain among those who journeyed, for the famine was in the land of Canaan. Genesis 42:1-5 (NKJ)

Jacob's eldest sons thought they had it made. They successfully got rid of their half-brother Joseph, thus allowing for a better relationship with their father Jacob. But life didn't turn out the way the brothers hoped. Joseph was not easily shaken out of Jacob's heart, and his absence didn't provide any room for his other children. The brothers tried to comfort Jacob, but he was beyond comforting. The brothers most likely felt rejected again. Their scheme backfired.

Fast-forward thirteen years. Jacob is still proactive and the patriarch of the family, as he looked for ways to provide for his family during a famine. He told his sons to leave for Egypt, where food was available. Jacob learned his lesson and doesn't send Benjamin, Joseph's younger brother, with the others.

The brothers have the rug pulled out from under them again, when they come face to face with Joseph, the brother they betrayed those many years ago.

None of the brothers could have imagined they would have to face their past. None could have anticipated or realized how their lives would be altered after this trip. They would be receiving more than food. The brothers would gain restoration and a second chance.

God, At times I want to be in control so I am not surprised at the outcome. In those situations, I have learned to give the control over to you, as your eyes see more than my limited human eyes. Please do what is best. When I relinquish control over to you, it can be a source of freedom in my life. In Jesus' name I pray, Amen.

Lisa

lisa@cfdevotionals.org
http://www.cfdevotionals.org