Year of the Bible: Part Two of Twelve Sample

God Meant it for Good.

We re-watched the video of Genesis today because, at minute 6:00, we see the culmination of Jacob and Joseph's life and the summary of the entire book of Genesis. After burying their father, the brothers all return to Egypt, and we see fear retaking hold of them. Naturally, they start to assume that Joseph may have been sparing their lives so as not to disturb their father. They were writing stories in their heads like, "Joseph has been being nice until our father is gone, but now he will probably take his revenge for what we did to him."

These "stories" tell us a lot about the condition of their hearts. After all this time and the forgiveness Joseph had offered, they still doubted that real forgiveness from Joseph was possible. Does that make you curious about what they harbored in their hearts?

Their assumptions lead them to send a message to Joseph to try once again to protect themselves from the consequences of their evil actions toward him. They sent a message to Joseph, telling him that their father's wishes were for him to forgive them. They were scared, so they lied again! Their actions break Joseph's heart. How many times do they need to hear that he has forgiven them? He wept and promised to provide for them and their children. He explained that they intended to harm him, but God intended their actions for good.

Tony Evans puts it like this, "Please note the order: evil, God, good. When we experience unjust evil, we must look for God who can bring about incredible good." Joseph knew that vengeance belonged to God, and somehow, he learned to let God be his vindicator in all of his trials.

Question: What gives someone the ability to forgive like you see Joseph forgiving his brothers?

Prayer Focus: Ask God to show you if there is anyone you may need to forgive. Take some time to speak forgiveness about that situation or person. You may need to do this several times after today, but take the first step by speaking forgiveness right now.

Remember, forgiving does not mean quickly trusting the person or people. If forgiveness is difficult, it can indicate you need help trusting God's ability to work and accomplish His plans. It also shows your need for God's healing words and comforting arms around your heart and mind. Ask God to meet you right there, in the difficulty and pain. Ask for increased faith and trust to know He has everything in His hands, including you.