In this video listen to Genesis 42 read by David Alley, followed by comments and prayer.

In Genesis 42 Joseph must have surely realised that the dreams he had as a teenager were coming to pass. His trust in God and commitment to righteousness has paid off. But just the same, he now has to overcome possibly the greatest test so far… the desire for revenge.

What looks like him being mean to his brothers in this chapter and the ones to follow, is actually a test of their character. Joseph wants to know if he can trust them, and a wise ruler does want to know these things.

His test involves accusing his brothers of spying, and imprisoning Simeon demanding the other brothers bring back Benjamin. This places too much strain on the aging father Jacob who cannot handle it. Despite Reuben’s guarantee of his own sons lives in the p ...