Through the Bible: GenesisSample

Joseph’s Tears Amidst Harsh Testing on His Brothers

Joseph said to them, “It is as I said to you, you are spies…”

Genesis 42: 14

Then they said to one another, “Truly we are guilty concerning our brother, because we saw the distress of his soul when he pleaded with us, yet we would not listen; therefore this distress has come upon us.”

Genesis 42:21

Joseph turned away from them and wept. But when he returned to them and spoke to them, he took Simeon from them and bound him before their eyes. 

Genesis 42:24  

Why did Joseph test his brothers? Was he trying to get back at them? In fact, he was trying to accomplish something greater than forgiveness. Joseph’s forgiveness could let go of the brothers’ offense in the past, but a relationship can only be built when their characters were truly transformed. What he longed for was the brotherly love and a genuine relationship with them.  Filled with tears in his heart, Joseph must bear the pain to find out that they were not the same brothers who sold him into slavery. Forgiveness is step one, but restoring a relationship is a process. Sometimes the process is not easy, but it is worth it.

Prayer:

Abba Father I thank You for the power of forgiveness. When we sin, the guilt serves as a warning that we have done something wrong. Lord, help us to repent, seek forgiveness and avoid future sin. May we go beyond forgiveness to seek reconciliation and restoration of relationships that will please You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.