1.  Genesis 43 recap: Joseph’s brothers come down to Egypt to secure grain for the famine has reached the land of Canaan.  He recognizes them but they do not recognize him.

2.  Lessons from chapter 43:

-from Joseph:  he shows no bitterness or tendency toward revenge.  He is living out the name he gave his first born son, Manasseh, “God has made me forget all my trouble.”  His harsh treatment of his brothers was a test designed to bring conviction upon them, to “stir up their consciences” and to see if they had changed. 

-from the brother:  sin can not be hidden indefinitely, it will be found out.  Conviction of sin should bring repentance (a change of mind) and confession to God. (Psalm 32; 51; 1 John 1:9)

-from Jacob:  Jacob was sure that everything was working against him.  In truth God was working everything together for his good (Romans 8:28).  Because he didn’t look for or reckon on God in his situation, he became negative and resigned to his situation.

3.  Application from chapter 43:

-Who do we need to forgive?  Do we keep a written or unwritten list of those who’ve wronged us?

-What sin do we need to own?  To confess?

-Are we looking for God in our situations, or do we discount what He may be doing? Remember, when you think things are as bad as they can get—they are better than you think!