and honey, &c. Providence dispenses not its gifts to all alike. But honey and spice will never make
up the want of bread-corn. The famine was sore in Canaan, yet they had balm and myrrh, &c. We
may live well enough upon plain food, without dainties; but we cannot live upon dainties without
plain food. Let us thank God that what is most needful and useful, generally is most cheap and
common. Though men value very highly their gold and silver, and the luxuries which are counted
the best fruits of every land, yet in a time of famine they willingly barter them for bread. And how
little will earthly good things stand us in stead in the day of wrath! How ready should we be to
renounce them all, as loss, for the excellency of the knowledge of Jesus Christ! Our way to prevail
with man is by first prevailing with the Lord in fervent prayer. But, Thy will be done, should close
every petition for the mercies of this life, or against the afflictions of this life.
Verses 15–25
Jacob's sons went down the second time into Egypt to buy corn. If we should ever know what
a famine of the word means, let us not think it much to travel as far for spiritual food, as they did
for bodily food. Joseph's steward had orders from his master to take them to his house. Even this
frightened them. Those that are guilty make the worst of every thing. But the steward encouraged
them. It appears, from what he said, that by his good master he was brought to the knowledge of
the true God, the God of the Hebrews. Religious servants should take all fit occasions to speak of
God and his providence, with reverence and seriousness.
Verses 26–34
Observe the great respect Joseph's brethren paid to him. Thus were Joseph's dreams more and
more fulfilled. Joseph showed great kindness to them. He treated them nobly; but see here the early
distance between Jews and gentiles. In a day of famine, it is enough to be fed; but they were feasted.
Their cares and fears were now over, and they ate their bread with joy, reckoning they were upon
good terms with the lord of the land. If God accept our works, our present, we have reason to be
cheerful. Joseph showed special regard for Benjamin, that he might try whether his brethren would
envy him. It must be our rule, to be content with what we have, and not to grieve at what others
have. Thus Jesus shows those whom he loves, more and more of their need. He makes them see
that he is their only refuge from destruction. He overcomes their unwillingness, and brings them
to himself. Then, as he sees good, he gives them some taste of his love, and welcomes them to the
provisions of his house, as an earnest of what he further intends for them.
Chapter 44
Chapter Outline
Joseph's policy to stay his brethren, and try (1–17)
their affection for Benjamin.
Judah's supplication to Joseph. (18–34)