Genesis 43, ep. 87 which is emphasizing God’s favor, restoration Egypt.

Hi, I’m Sal Lopez Executive Director of Ozark Hunger Relief, I am doing this to hopefully find some sponsors (tax deductible donations) for an office in Prairie Grove, Ar. I have seen and fed many children who wander around here. I thought if I started a non-profit, the community would be happy to help. Nope! I’ve had nothing but suspicion, derision, denial, and was ripped off for everything I had, by another food pantry. They offered to help, then when I delivered everything, I had, then they told me to stay away from them, but subsequently asked me for more donations. It has been horribly depressing, but I will persevere and get this office open.
My vision is to be a community resource center, but the main goal is to feed hungry kids, whose parents are drug addicts, and/or alcoholics. I guess some are just poor. Anyway, I need help and will advertise for you, and have signs of acknowledgement for every donor, proportionate for the donation.
Anyway, this episode is Genesis 43 which is emphasizing God’s favor, restoration, and abundance. It connects the events of Genesis 43—Joseph’s brothers’ return to Egypt and their unexpected welcome in Egypt.
Genesis 43: Step Into God’s Plan for Your Comeback

Hello, friends! I’m so excited you’re here today because we’re diving into a story from Genesis 43 that’s going to lift your spirits and remind you that God is working behind the scenes for your good. This is a story about second chances, about facing your fears, and about stepping into the amazing plan God has for your life. So, get ready to be encouraged, because God’s got something special for you today!

Let’s set the scene. In Genesis 43, we’re in the middle of Joseph’s incredible story. You remember Joseph—the young man with the coat of many colors, betrayed by his brothers, sold into slavery, but now risen to power as the governor of Egypt. A famine has hit the land, and Joseph’s brothers, back in Canaan, are desperate for food. They’ve already been to Egypt once, bought grain, and met this mysterious governor—who’s actually Joseph, but they don’t know it yet. He sent them home with grain but kept their brother Simeon, saying, “Don’t come back unless you bring your youngest brother, Benjamin.” Now, their food is running out, and their father, Jacob, is terrified to send Benjamin, his favorite son, to Egypt. But they have no choice. Genesis 43 is about their return trip, their fears, and how God turns it all around for a miracle.
I want to share three life-changing truths from this chapter that will inspire you to trust God’s plan, no matter what you’re facing. God’s got a comeback for you, and it’s bigger than you can imagine!

Truth #1: God Turns Your Fears Into Favor

Let’s start with the brothers’ journey back to Egypt. In verses 15 to 23, they’re nervous—really nervous. They’re carrying money to pay for more grain, plus extra to return what they found in their sacks last time, thinking it was a mistake. They’re worried this governor—Joseph—will accuse them of stealing and punish them. And they’re especially scared for Benjamin, because Jacob’s heart is set on him. They’re thinking, “What if we lose him? What if this governor throws us in prison?” Their minds are racing with worst-case scenarios.

But here’s the beautiful thing: when they get to Egypt, Joseph doesn’t meet them with anger. He welcomes them into his house, throws a feast, and releases Simeon from prison. They’re expecting judgment, but they get favor instead. The steward even says, “Peace to you, do not be afraid” (Genesis 43:23). Isn’t that just like God? When you’re expecting a storm, He gives you a banquet. When you’re bracing for rejection, He opens doors of blessing.
Friends, I want you to hear this: God is bigger than your fears. Maybe you’re facing something that’s got you worried—a financial struggle, a family issue, or a dream that feels out of reach. You’re imagining the worst, just like those brothers. But God is saying, “Don’t be afraid. I’m turning your fears into favor.” He’s working behind the scenes, setting up a table of blessing right in the middle of your famine. So, take a deep breath, lift your head, and expect God’s favor today. He’s not going to let you down!

Truth #2: God Uses Your Past to Build Your Future

Now, let’s talk about Joseph. In verses 26 to 30, the brothers bow before him, not knowing he’s their brother. Joseph sees Benjamin, his little brother, and his heart is overwhelmed. He has to step out to weep because the memories come flooding back—betrayal, slavery, years of separation. But instead of holding a grudge, Joseph chooses kindness. He prepares a feast, gives them generous portions, and even favors Benjamin with five times more food. He’s not stuck in the past; he’s stepping into God’s plan for restoration.