Genesis 37:12-36
Today's Scripture

We see more character development of Joseph's brothers in this passage. They are angry enough to kill their dreamer brother Joseph, the favorite son. But they agree to throw him into a cistern instead of shedding his blood, since Reuben suggested this. (Reuben planned to save him later.) Then, when Reuben was gone, they saw some traders coming up from Egypt, and decided to sell their brother to them as a slave. (This was Judah's suggestion--he didn't really want Joseph killed, either.) Yet when Reuben returned, he was upset that his brother was gone.

The brothers decided to pretend Joseph had been attacked and killed by a wild animal and dipped his coat in an animal's blood. Then they brought the coat back to their father, who mourned for many days and would not be comforted.

Meanwhile, Joseph was sold as a slave. God is at work in the lives of all the brothers--but in the midst of these circumstances, it was difficult to see his hand. We, too, may not see God in the middle of our troubles, but he has the best in mind for us. He will work all things out for good--he can take any trouble and turn it for his glory and our benefit in the long run.
- posted by Suzi @ 5:15 AM