“And they said unto him, Wherefore saith my lord these words? God forbid that thy servants should do according to this thing.”
In Genesis 44, we find Joseph, who had been sold into slavery by his brothers, now serving as a powerful official in Egypt. At this point, Joseph’s brothers had unknowingly come to him seeking food during a famine. Joseph devised a plan to test his brothers’ integrity and see if they had changed since their past actions.
In Genesis 44:7, Joseph’s steward accuses the brothers of stealing Joseph’s silver cup, which was a valuable possession. The brothers are taken aback by the accusation and respond with the words in question: “Wherefore saith my lord these words? God forbid that thy servants should do according to this thing.”
Let’s break down this verse and explore its key elements:
- Respectful inquiry: The brothers begin by addressing Joseph as “my lord,” displaying respect and acknowledging his authority. They are genuinely perplexed by the accusation and seek clarification on why Joseph would say such things.
- Rejection of guilt: The brothers emphatically deny the accusation, using a strong phrase, “God forbid.” They express their disbelief that they would ever commit such an act, suggesting their innocence in the matter.
This verse reveals several important themes and lessons that we can draw from:
- Transformation and redemption: The encounter between Joseph and his brothers showcases the transformation and redemption of characters. Previously, the brothers had betrayed Joseph out of jealousy, but now they demonstrate a changed attitude, reflecting their growth and repentance. This reminds us that people have the capacity to change and be redeemed by God’s grace.
- Honesty and integrity: The brothers’ response highlights their commitment to honesty and integrity. They firmly deny any involvement in the alleged theft, affirming their integrity even in a challenging situation. As believers, we should strive to uphold these virtues in our own lives, being honest and upright in all circumstances.
- Trust in God: The brothers’ declaration, “God forbid,” indicates their reliance on God and their trust in His guidance and protection. They recognize that their actions should align with God’s standards and that He would not allow them to act in a dishonest or deceitful manner. This reminds us of the importance of seeking God’s will and living in accordance with His principles.
- Testing and character development: Joseph’s plan to test his brothers serves as a catalyst for their character development. Through this test, Joseph assesses whether his brothers have truly changed and whether they exhibit remorse for their past actions. Similarly, in our own lives, we may face tests and challenges that help refine our character and strengthen our faith.
In summary, Genesis 44:7 captures the brothers’ response to the accusation brought against them by Joseph’s steward. Their words reflect their transformed character, integrity, trust in God, and the themes of redemption and testing. This verse serves as a reminder for us to uphold honesty and integrity in all situations, trust in God’s guidance, and be open to personal growth and transformation.
