Gems of Knowledge

Today’s One Year Bible Verses: Genesis 44:1-45:28, Matthew 14:13-36, Psalm 18:37-50, Proverbs 4:11-13

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Reunion is God’s Desire

In Genesis 44 and 45, we see a beautiful picture of true repentance.

Joseph is now second in command in Egypt, and his brothers stand before him without knowing who he is. He hasn’t revealed himself yet. Instead, he tests their hearts to see if they have changed since the day they betrayed him and left him for dead.

This time, something is different.

When they believe Benjamin will be taken away, Scripture says, “They tore their clothes in despair” (Genesis 44:13). Their reaction shows deep pain and sorrow. Years earlier, they had allowed Joseph to be lost without much concern. Now, the thought of losing another brother breaks them.

They are no longer hardened.
They are no longer careless.
Their hearts have changed.

Judah then steps forward and speaks. He confesses what has happened. He acknowledges the pain he caused. He explains how deeply it would wound their father to lose Benjamin. And he says something powerful—he is willing to give his own life so Benjamin can go free.

He cannot do it again.
He cannot hurt his father again.
He cannot abandon another brother again.

This is true repentance.

It includes:

• Remorse — real sorrow for sin
• Confession — honesty before God
• Surrender — laying everything down

Judah is no longer protecting himself. He is protecting others. He is willing to sacrifice for what is right.

When Joseph hears this, he can no longer hold back. The brothers’ repentance stirs something deep within him. He breaks down, reveals who he is, and welcomes them back in forgiveness and love.

That is what true repentance does.

It opens the door for restoration.

The same is true with our Heavenly Father. When we come to Him with sincere hearts—grieved over sin, honest in confession, and willing to change—His heart is moved toward us. He does not reject true repentance. He runs toward it with mercy.

God does not respond to shallow apologies.
He responds to surrendered hearts.

When we truly turn back to Him, He meets us with compassion, forgiveness, and renewed relationship. He restores what was broken and invites us back into the blessings of His Kingdom. 💎

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Action (5 Minutes with God)

Today, take 5 minutes to reflect with God. Ask Him:

• “What do You want me to know about this today, Lord?”
  • Journal what He whispers by His Holy Spirit.
• Then ask, “What do You want me to do?”
  • Journal what He whispers – then do it!

Let today be a day of sweet reunion and communion with the Master.

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Prayer

Father, search my heart and show me anything that needs to change. Give me true repentance—not just words, but a willing spirit. Help me walk in humility, honesty, and surrender so I can live fully restored in Your love. Amen.

To read more 5 Minutes with God devotionals click here.