Back in Canaan, Jacob and his family are feeling times tough and Jacob calls for action (v1-2). In difficult days just feeling sorry for ourselves is no option when there something which can be done about it. Far too often we are complaining when we need to act.

Ten brothers come to Egypt for grain (v4-5) and they come and bow before Joseph (v6). Joseph’s dream is being fulfilled.

They don’t recognise Joseph and he deals harshly with them (v7). We don’t fully know why Joseph acts as he does with his brothers. Partly it might be revenge but undoubtedly it was part of God’s plan of moulding those who would be the leaders of His people.

At one stage the interaction becomes too much for Joseph (v21-24). Many years of suffering and hurt are now coming to a head in Joseph’s life.

Simeon is kept as surety and the other brothers are sent to get Benjamin as evidence of their truthfulness.