Joseph Forgave

The forgiven forgive. At least that is God’s plan.

Joseph decided to follow God’s plan of forgiveness. His brothers had mocked him, sold him, and lied about him. During the following years he served as a slave, prisoner, and finally an official in Egypt. During a terrible famine, his brothers in desperation came to buy grain from Egypt. Although they didn’t recognize him, he recognized them. He didn’t seek vengeance; instead he made provisions for them and his father, Jacob, to move to Egypt.

He and Pharaoh provided abundantly for them. But eventually Jacob died. The brothers became very nervous believing Joseph’s kindness was only for his father. Would he strike back at them now that their father was dead? Notice Joseph’s answers. Joseph said to them, “Do not be afraid, for am I in the place of God? But as for you, you meant evil against me; but God meant it for good, in order to bring it about as it is this day, to save many people alive. Now therefore, do not be afraid; I will provide for you and your little ones. And he comforted them and spoke kindly to them.” (Genesis 50:19-21)

Joseph knew…Vengeance is God’s Place. There are some shoes that are simply too big for us. Vengeance is God’s; He will repay (Romans 12:9). When we fail to forgive, we create an environment to seek vengeance. Even if we say we don’t intend to seek vengeance, it is always produced from a heart that fails to forgive. We don’t avoid vengeance simply because we have decided against it; we avoid vengeance when we forgive. Leave the vengeance to God by forgiving. Our enemies ought to be able to hear Joseph’s words “Do not be afraid, for am I in the place of God?”

God works all things together for good. Joseph knew his brothers plans were wicked, but God can always trump man’s plans. Joseph knew God used their wicked plan (and Joseph’s faithful service) to save many lives. Can you say, “And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.” (Romans 8:28) If you are truly living according God’s purpose, evil people cannot hinder you and God from filling His purpose! So there is no need to seek vengeance because God’s plans will not be stopped!

To return good for evil. Joseph knew his brothers sold his freedom and never looked back. But he also knew his response would not be a reaction to what they did to him, but instead would reflect what God did for him. God forgives us and expects us to learn from His actions and pass it on to others. Instead of reflecting their wickedness, Joseph kindly offered to provide for them and their children. Good for evil is God’s way (Romans 12:21). Can others see God living in you when you are mistreated? The forgiven forgive.             Eric