Joseph said to them, “It is just as I told you: You are spies! And this is how you will be tested: As surely as Pharaoh lives, you will not leave this place unless your youngest brother comes here. Send one of your number to get your brother; the rest of you will be kept in prison, so that your words may be tested to see if you are telling the truth. If you are not, then as surely as Pharaoh lives, you are spies!” And he put them all in custody for three days. On the third day, Joseph said to them, “Do this and you will live, for I fear God: If you are honest men, let one of your brothers stay here in prison, while the rest of you go and take grain back for your starving households. But you must bring your youngest brother to me, so that your words may be verified and that you may not die.” This they proceeded to do. They said to one another, “Surely we are being punished because of our brother. We saw how distressed he was when he pleaded with us for his life, but we would not listen; that’s why this distress has come on us.” Reuben replied, “Didn’t I tell you not to sin against the boy? But you wouldn’t listen! Now we must give an accounting for his blood.” They did not realize that Joseph could understand them, since he was using an interpreter. He turned away from them and began to weep, but then came back and spoke to them again. He had Simeon taken from them and bound before their eyes. Joseph gave orders to fill their bags with grain, to put each man’s silver back in his sack, and to give them provisions for their journey. After this was done for them, they loaded their grain on their donkeys and left.
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5 days
The Essential 100® Bible Challenge is a simple tool to read through the Big Story of God's Word. The reading plan is based on 50 Old Testament and 50 New Testament passages. Continue with the third part "The Story of Joseph." ®Produced by American Bible Society in partnership with Scripture Union, Inc.
5 Days
The path to forgiveness is hard, and the journey to reconciliation is complicated. In this 5-day plan, Wendy Alsup will walk you through the story of Joseph in the Bible to help you move toward forgiveness with faith and hope in your relationships.
7 Days
We all experience highs and lows in life. Sometimes our circumstances are hard to understand, and it feels impossible to see through to the other side. But Jesus calls us to live a faithful life, even when it isn't easy. Joseph's story, as told in the Book of Genesis, holds many lessons that can help us make sense of where we are and learn to trust God in the ups and downs.
Have you ever wondered about your purpose in this life? Some seek their so-called destiny for a lifetime and never find it, while others seem to embrace a calling in which they find fulfillment.
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