So Be It Lord
BRD REFLECTION 2026
Genesis 43:1-14 and Psalm 116:15-19 (NIV)
(Chua Chi Siong from Discipleship & Nurture)
READ:
Genesis 43:1-14 (NIV)
OBSERVE:
I observed the transformation of Judah from instigating his brothers to sell Joseph to slave traders (Genesis 37:26-27) to taking personal responsibility and guaranteeing the safety of Benjamin for the trip to Egypt to buy much-needed grain to save the family from starvation.
I also noted in Genesis 42:36-38 how Israel perceived that “Everything has been against him” and flatly refused to allow his beloved son, Benjamin, to go to Egypt. Then, in Genesis 43, as famine persisted, he was persuaded by Judah of the need to relent. After dispensing earthly wisdom (about the bearing of gifts and payment for the purchase of grain), Israel finally called upon God to grant mercy for the release of Simeon and the return of Benjamin. I am especially touched by v14, where Israel surrendered the fate of his children to God (“And if I must bear the anguish of their deaths, then so be it”).
APPLY:
In times of challenges, I tend to take a back seat and passively await others to take the first step towards managing the issues at hand. I have asked myself if I should follow Judah’s example and take active, personal responsibility instead.
In Genesis 43, everything appeared to be against Israel and his family. Yet in later chapters we see how God delivered them from their problems. This shows that our merciful God is in control of every situation. Similarly, there are situations where God is waiting for me to cede control to Him, learn to trust Him and say to Him, “So be it, Lord. May Your will be done.”
DO:
In my daily quiet time with God, I shall ask Him to show me a need that He would like me to meet and pray for the courage and trust to obey.
Just because I cannot see God’s hand at work does not mean that He is not working. In challenging situations, I shall remind myself that God is always in control. I should face my fears, loosen my grip and entrust what is precious to God’s hands.
PRAY:
Dear God,
You are my sovereign Lord. In all my challenges, even if I feel that everything is against me, let me hold fast to Your faithfulness and remember that You are present with me and that You are for me. Help me to yield to You and Your perfect plan.
Lord, as You bless me, You also call me to be a blessing. Help me not to shirk Your call, but instead to step up, take personal responsibility and be Your hands and feet in ministering to others in need. In Jesus’ Name I pray, Amen.
