Garry continued looking at the life of Joseph today, speaking from Gen 42:25-26. Here, we see Joseph blessing his brothers by putting grain into their sacks and putting back the silver they had offered to pay for the grain. They did not expect this, but through Joseph, their needs were met and their debt had been counted as paid. This is a picture of what God has done for us through Christ. A price was put on sin and a debt was due, but Christ has paid this debt through his death on the cross. His death means we can be bought back and brought back to God (see Romans 5.)
Moreover, Joseph’s brothers were given provisions for their journey. They received more than they asked for. We ask for forgiveness from God but find we receive grace upon grace (John 1;16). Just like the prodigal son, we find we are welcomed back and given new robes and food to eat (see Luke 15:21-24). God has adopted us as sons (Rom 8:15-17) and given us all the legal standing as heirs of Christ. He has given us new birth into a living hope and into an inheritance that cannot perish or fade. (1 Pet 1:3-5)
God also gives us the Holy Spirit within (John 14:15-17) to be our advocate, adviser, comforter and intercessor. (Rom 8:26) He teaches us about sin, righteousness and judgment (John 16:12-14) and speaks directly to us of the things of God. (1 Cor 2:10-14), lavishing His gifts upon us. (1 Cor 12:8-10)
What Joseph did for his brothers – filling their bags with grain, returning each man’s silver and giving them provisions for their journey is a beautiful illustration of what God does for each and every one who comes to Him.
