Joseph was deeply moved by Judah’s willingness to sacrifice himself with a sincere confession of repentance. He wept loudly and revealed himself to his brothers. His brothers could not rejoice because of their guilt and fear. But Joseph explained to them that God’s hand was behind all that had happened to fulfill His great plan (7, 8). Joseph did not take personal grudges toward his brothers as he found his identity as the provider and protector for his family (11). We can overcome human hatred and sorrow as we recognize God’s sovereignty.

Pharaoh and the Egyptians celebrated Joseph’s reunion with his family, and Pharaoh supplied the necessary material things and transportation to bring the rest of the family to Egypt. As one can well imagine, Jacob could not believe such good news that his beloved long-lost son, whom he thought dead, was not only alive but now waiting for him as a ruler in Egypt! But he soon had to believe as he saw all the extravagant gifts Pharaoh and Joseph sent for him. He would go to Egypt to see Joseph now! Would you also live with this hope in God, who has victory over death and wipes away tears from our faces (Isa 25:8)?
Application: Father, thank you for the hope we have in you, knowing that you are good and almighty. Even if I shed tears of sorrow sometimes, I am comforted by this hope.
One Word: It was God’s plan