FORGIVENESS

By Peggy Little

Joseph said to his brothers, “I am Joseph your brother, whom you sold into Egypt.” Genesis 45:4

     The story of Joseph is an early account of the forgiving nature God expects us to display in our treatment of those who have wronged us. It is a prime example of Christ-like love. Though Joseph’s brothers sold him into slavery and deceived his father into thinking him dead, when he confronts his brothers during their time of need, forgiveness and love burst forth from his heart.

     With uncanny faith in the overriding providence of God, Joseph even professes his belief that God had redeemed his brother’s betrayal of him by using it as a means to deliver his family during the time of famine. Joseph’s forgiveness of his brother’s sin is so complete that he kisses each of them and weeps with joy at being united with them once again.

     So let’s go on a little farther and let me ask you these questions.

     Do you suppose that while Joseph was being sent to misery and an almost certain death in Egypt that he thought God was preparing him to rule a nation? Do you suppose that while he was imprisoned in darkness and filth that he felt the anticipation of one preparing for a glorious future? Do you suppose that during the long, forced march to Egypt he was thankful to his brother’s for acting as the hand of God moving him toward the realization of his destiny? I don’t think so.

     Yet when Joseph forgave his brother’s, he revealed a long-term attitude of heart that allowed his suffering to become his strength.

     God expects us to forgive because we’re growing in Christ-like love. But more personally, when we forgive, we allow God to take the mean treatment we receive and turn it into the forging of a character that allows God to use us to rule in our own Egypt.

     Who is God using to shape your character? And too! Are you forgiving?

     Please take heed to what forgiving is all about and search your heart to see if there is something or someone you need to ask forgiveness for.

     I love you all in the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.