Daily Devotional

“Joseph could not restrain himself before all those who stood by him, and he cried out, ‘Make everyone go out from me!’ So, no one stood with him while Joseph made himself known to his brothers” (Genesis 45:1). 

How do you know if you are holding a genuine piece of gold? Some items might look like real gold but are simply composites of lower grade metals. Several techniques can be used to identify real gold. 

The magnet test is a simple way to quickly eliminate questionable pieces, as real gold is not magnetic. You can also rub a piece of gold jewellery on an unglazed ceramic plate. If the streak created is gold, it is likely the real thing. But if the streak is black, you have a non-gold item. 

The most accurate way to determine genuine gold is to use the acid test. This involves rubbing the item against a testing stone. Then a drop of acid test solution is applied to the rubbing. If there is no change to the material, you have true gold. Different acid solutions can determine its karat value. 

Joseph was sceptical about the genuineness of his brothers. After they sold him into slavery in Egypt, he had risen to become the second highest commander in the land. When they came to Egypt to buy grain, Joseph recognized them, but they didn’t know him. He wondered if their characters had changed. Were they still selfish and cruel? He tested them. 

Using several different ploys, the Egyptian governor tried their hearts and examined their motives. Were they out to cover their own skins or did they care for their father and younger brother? Were they honest or deceptive? How would they respond if pressed to the limit? Joseph’s acid test revealed that his brothers had changed. Judah was even willing to die for Benjamin if need be. 

Do you have a genuine heart of gold? Only the acid test of trials will reveal the truth. 

Lord, test me and try me. See if there is any offensive way in me and lead me in the everlasting way.