In Genesis chapter 42 we read about Joseph’s brothers coming to Egypt to buy food for their families. The brothers who came did not recognize Joseph, whom they had sold into slavery many years ago, but he did recognize them.
Lets’ review the highlights of the Joseph story:
1. He was the favorite of his father Jacob
2. His brothers hated Joseph because it was so obvious he was the favored one
3. Joseph told his brothers he dreamed they would bow before him.
4. Their hatred multiplied and they conspired to kill him.
5. Instead of murdering Joseph, they sold him into slavery.
6. While in Egypt as a slave, Joseph had many low points.
7. Ultimately, he became the number 2 leader in the Egyptian empire.
8. Great famine was in the land and Jacob sends his sons to Egypt to buy food
9. Unbeknownst to the brothers, Joseph is the one who holds their future.
None of the brothers recognized him, but Joseph knew who they were. Joseph toyed with them, by holding one of the brothers in prison until the others returned with Joseph’s brother Benjamin. Additionally, he had their money put back in their sacks which terrified them when they returned home to Jacob. Plus, he required that they bring his other brother Benjamin, or he would not sell them food. It took time but it all fell into place. Ultimately Joseph revealed himself to his brothers and the healing began.
This whole story is in Genesis 38-50 and shows the emotion and patience that Joseph took to pay back his brothers for selling him into slavery. Ultimately, he did forgive them, but it was a process. The old bromide to “forgive and forget” is often used but it isn’t so easy as we see in the story of Joseph. It took time.
When your brother offends you, it may be easy to say I forgive you. But don’t walk away feeling guilty that you haven’t forgotten the offense. Forgiveness frees us from anger, bitterness and self-righteousness. We are human though but as Christ told Peter “I do not say to you, (forgive) up to seven times, but up to seventy times seven.” Mt 18:22. Over time you will forget as old offenses fade. In the meantime, continue to pray for those who have offended you and for yourself that you will put the problem out of your mind forever. Do not depend on your own ability.
Forgiveness is a process. Let us remember that but begin the process prayerfully and the peace of Christ will be with you!
Hallelujah what a Savior!