Genesis 43:23

Genesis 43:23. Peace be to you— Set your hearts at ease; your God, and the God of your father, hath given you treasure; as much as to say, you are to acknowledge the providence of God in what hath befallen you: for the rest, I had your money; it came to my hands, and you may make yourselves easy. There is an ambiguity in the phrase, proper, and, no doubt, designed to keep up a state of suspense in their minds.

REFLECTIONS.—Once more they are safely arrived, nor grudge their pains to relieve their hunger. When there is a famine of the word, shall we take less pains to travel for it? They are kindly received, and invited to Joseph's house; and this, instead of comforting, terrifies them. Fear makes every mole-hill a mountain, and creates suspicion even of our mercies. They resolve to prevent all accusation, by informing the steward of the money which was returned, with offers to repay it; but he quiets their fears with an acknowledgment of its receipt, bids them regard it as a gift from God, and takes all imaginable care till his master comes home. Note; 1. Honesty will be found the best policy. 2. Success in business should be regarded as treasure given of God.