The story of Joseph and his brothers is a very compelling and emotional story. Once Joseph is granted the leadership over all Egypt second to only the Pharaoh, his brothers visit because they need grain due to the famine.

Joseph recognizes them, but they do not recognize him. He accuses them of being spies and says that he needs to see Benjamin to confirm the story they told him to show they were not spies.

When his brothers get back to their father, notice what he says in Gen. 42:38,

“But he said, ‘My son shall not go down with you, for his brother is dead, and he is the only one left. oIf harm should happen to him on the journey that you are to make, you would bring down my gray hairs with sorrow to Sheol.’”

Did you notice why sending Benjamin was too much for Jacob to bear? He said, “he is the only one left.” What does that mean? It means that he was the last son alive from his favorite with Rachel. Rachel had two sons, Joseph, and Benjamin.  She died giving birth to Benjamin.

How do you think it must have felt to be a son of one of Jacobs other wives? You did not rate in your father’s eyes unless you were born of Rachel! This must have caused considerable friction in the family and may give more insight into why his brothers sold Joseph into slavery.

As K.A. Matthews states, “Benjamin is ‘the only one left states what the brothers had known all along: Benjamin was the only son who counted in their father’s eyes.”

In light of this fact, John 1:12 is very encouraging, It says, “But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God.”

Father, the truth that I am one of your children through faith in Jesus is overwhelming. I am not a second class son; you love me just as you love all your children. We are all equal in your sight. Thank you for loving me so.

Following Jesus with you,

Jeff