Take Your Seatنموونە

Day 7: Speaking Reconciliation:

Congratulations! You made it to the final day of the Take Your Seat Plan. I recognize that 7 days isn’t that long, but I pray this plan has positively impacted you.

On our final day, we’re talking about speaking reconciliation.

In Genesis 49, before Jacob’s death, he called his sons together, so he could “bless” them. He spoke poignantly regarding each’s strengths and weaknesses and prophesied about their descendants based on what he, as their father, saw in them. His words about Joseph indicate that, by now, he knew what had transpired between him and his brothers. Based on what he said, he also saw God’s hand at work.

Following their father’s death, Joseph’s brothers were fearful that he would now take out vengeance on them. They were even scared enough to try to trick Joseph (Genesis 50:15-21).

Regardless, Joseph—again—submitted to the seat that God had put him in: favored son, dreamer, slave, household steward, dream interpreter, kingdom administrator, family benefactor, promise keeper, and now... forgiving his brothers. Can you pass the test? Are you able to forgive and forget like nothing ever happened? Joseph could’ve condemned his brothers forever. If he did, he would have upended the future. What is hanging on your ability to forgive?

When we are tempted to react in retaliation, we must reconcile. Who do you need to forgive, and for what? Joseph realized that, despite being wronged greatly, reconciliation would free himself from the pain of the past.

Our natural tendency is to right wrongs—especially wrongs done to us. We have to intentionally posture ourselves to give mercy to others, even if we deem them undeserving. Being in leadership means you take on a lot. You get wounded by wounded people all the time. You get mishandled, even by those you once served alongside.

If leading from the second seat can show you anything, it is that there is much miscommunication that causes pain for leaders and followers. You see how easily things can be twisted and turned until minuscule problems become major issues. Being a minister of mercy means you have the ability to help ease the pains of leaders and followers.

You know what it’s like, but you also see the problem from your unique perspective in the second seat. That’s why you’re called to sit in it. However, you can’t reign with contention in your heart. That’s a setup. You have to heal, so you can handle your role.

The power of forgiveness is immense and can have a profound impact on both personal and professional relationships. Forgiveness involves letting go of feelings of anger, resentment, and bitterness toward someone who has wronged us and, instead, choosing to extend compassion and understanding.

Well, once again, I hope this 7-day plan has encouraged you in your leadership and walk with the Lord. If you want to read my full book, Take Your Seat, you can get your copy at Take Your Seat.