1 Samuel 1:14-15 So Eli said to her, “How long will you make a drunken spectacle of yourself?….” But Hannah answered, “No, my lord…I have drunk neither wine nor strong drink, but I am pouring out my soul before the LORD.”
My readings this morning were diverse, but the way that both Hannah and Joseph handled accusation and mistreatment really struck me. Had I been accused of being drunk when I was earnestly pouring out my heart to my Savior over a subject that brought me much pain, I’m not sure I would have reacted as Hannah. Of course, time, place, and cultural shifts were in effect, but many folks, I think, would have reacted defensively instead of seeking to be understood. Jesus, Help me!
Gen 45:4-5 So Joseph said…., “I am your brother Joseph, whom you sold into Egypt. And now do not be distressed or angry with yourselves because you sold me here, for God sent me before you to preserve life.
And how many of us understand injustices, real or perceived slights and grievances, within families? Joseph’s injustices were quite real, yet he saw a greater purpose and a higher power orchestrating events, and he forgave his brothers and urged them to forgive themselves.
Gen 45:8 So it was not you who sent me here, but God….
Lord, Thank You for this day and for this scripture. Thank You for continuing to work on my heart in the area of bitterness and forgiveness. Help me to forgive others as you forgive me and to let go of any bitterness. Draw me closer. Amen.
Isaiah 43:25 I, yes I, am He who blots out your transgressions for My own sake and remembers your sins no more.
Have a blessed day.