What can we learn about humility from Joseph's brothers in Genesis 43:28? Context of Genesis 43:28 Joseph’s brothers have returned to Egypt with Benjamin. Unaware that the Egyptian governor standing before them is actually Joseph, they must speak carefully. When Joseph asks about their father, they reply: “Your servant our father is well; he is still alive.” Then they bowed down in homage. (Genesis 43:28) Key Marks of Humility in the Verse • Calling Jacob “your servant” – They willingly place their family patriarch beneath Joseph’s authority. • Bowing “in homage” – A physical act that acknowledges another’s superiority. • Absence of self-justification – No attempt to defend or elevate themselves after their earlier accusations and imprisonment. • Unified submission – All the brothers bow together, signaling shared repentance and humility. Lessons on Humility • Humility bows before rightful authority – Their gesture models Romans 13:1, recognizing God-ordained leadership. • Humility speaks with respectful language – “Your servant” shows deference (cf. 1 Peter 5:5). • Humility lets actions match words – Their bow reinforces their spoken respect (James 2:17). • Humility prepares the way for reconciliation – Their submission softens Joseph’s heart, foreshadowing forgiveness (Genesis 45:4–5). • Humility often follows conviction of sin – Guilt over selling Joseph (Genesis 42:21–22) pushes them toward lower self-estimation. Supporting Scripture • Proverbs 15:33: “The fear of the LORD is the instruction of wisdom, and humility comes before honor.” • James 4:10: “Humble yourselves before the Lord, and He will exalt you.” • Luke 14:11: “For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and the one who humbles himself will be exalted.” • Philippians 2:5–7: “Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus, who, existing in the form of God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but emptied Himself, taking the form of a servant…” Practical Takeaways • Use respectful speech—titles like “sir,” “ma’am,” or “pastor” convey humility. • Let body language agree with your words—eye contact, a gentle tone, even a bowed head when appropriate. • Own past failures without excuses; humility admits wrongdoing. • Seek reconciliation quickly; humility opens doors that pride keeps shut. • Remember that God exalts the humble—in families, workplaces, and churches alike. |
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