Hard life: if it has to be, it has to be

Hard life: if it has to be, it has to be

"Israel said, "Why are you making my life so difficult! Why did you ever tell the man you had another brother?" (Gen.43.6) 

While God was orchestrating event to unite Jacob and Joseph again, it appears Jacob was doing everything in his power to resist it unknowingly. God was working behind the scenes but on the stage of life, we seen Jacob resisting the possibilities. 

What could God be working or orchestrating on your behalf but you are unknowingly resisting? In fact, Reuben tried to intervene, putting the life of his two sons on the line but Jacob refused. 

"Reuben spoke up: "I'll put my two sons in your hands as hostages. If I don't bring Benjamin back, you can kill them. Trust me with Benjamin; I'll bring him back." But Jacob refused. "My son will not go down with you." (Gen.42.37-38) Judah also had to put his life on the line before his father would give in 

"Judah pushed his father Israel. "Let the boy go; I'll take charge of him. Let us go and be on our way--if we don't get going, we're all going to starve to death--we and you and our children too!" (Gen.43.8) 

In our text we see Jacob rebuking his sons for telling the man that they had another brother. In life, when faced with difficult decisions, we tend to make the best, given the available information. But sometimes, those decision come back to hunt us. And we begin to regret and say stuff like, 'had I know'. That won't help. You didn't know. So move on. Face that difficult situation head on, giving it your best, then let the chips fall where they may. Knowing you have done your best, let God handle the rest. And that was what Jacob finally did. 

"Their father Israel gave in. "If it has to be, it has to be. But do this: stuff your packs with the finest products from the land you can find and take them to the man as gifts--some balm and honey, some spices and perfumes, some pistachios and almonds." (Gen.43.11) 

Hard life? If it has to be, it has to be. Toughen up and face it. If it is hard, then do it hard, trusting that the Strong God will give you grace. 

"And may The Strong God give you grace in that man's eyes so that he'll send back your other brother along with Benjamin. For me, nothing's left; I've lost everything." (Gen.43.14) 

Good day,
Have a great day today,
Emmanuel Okoro,
(aka Mr. Lift) 

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