“So now it was not you that sent me hither, but God: and he hath made me a father to Pharaoh, and lord of all his house, and a ruler throughout all the land of Egypt.”
This verse is part of the narrative in Genesis that describes the reunion of Joseph with his brothers. To understand the context of this verse, let’s explore the preceding events.
In Genesis, Joseph was sold into slavery by his jealous brothers and eventually ended up in Egypt. Through a series of events orchestrated by God, Joseph rose to a position of great authority under Pharaoh, becoming second in command over all the land. During a time of famine, Joseph’s brothers traveled to Egypt seeking food. They stood before him, unaware that he was their long-lost brother whom they had sold into slavery.
When Joseph revealed his true identity to his brothers, they were shocked and fearful. They likely expected Joseph to take revenge on them for their past actions. However, Joseph responds in a surprising and compassionate manner, as seen in Genesis 45:8.
Divine Providence: Joseph declares, “So now it was not you that sent me hither, but God.” Despite the brothers’ malicious intentions when they sold Joseph into slavery, Joseph recognizes that God had a greater purpose in allowing those events to occur. He attributes his position of authority and the circumstances that led to his reunion with his family to God’s sovereign plan. Joseph’s perspective reflects his faith in God’s providential control over his life, even in the midst of difficult and painful circumstances.
Elevated Status: Joseph continues, “and he hath made me a father to Pharaoh, and lord of all his house, and a ruler throughout all the land of Egypt.” Joseph acknowledges that God’s plan was not just about reuniting him with his family but also involved positioning him in a place of power and influence. By being elevated to such a high position in Egypt, Joseph was able to provide for his family during the famine and preserve the line of promise through which God would fulfill His covenant.
Joseph’s response in this verse demonstrates his matured character and his understanding of God’s overarching plan. He chooses forgiveness and reconciliation over revenge, recognizing that God had used the brothers’ actions to fulfill His purposes. It also highlights Joseph’s humility as he acknowledges that his authority and position were granted by God.
This verse invites us to reflect on the concept of divine providence in our own lives. It reminds us that even in challenging and painful circumstances, God can work things together for our good and His glory. It encourages us to trust in God’s plan, even when it is beyond our understanding, and to seek reconciliation and forgiveness rather than holding onto bitterness or seeking revenge.
