Gen 50:15 When Joseph’s brothers saw that their father was dead, they said, “What if Joseph holds a grudge against us and pays us back for the wrongs we did to him?”
My heart hurts a bit for the brothers here. They are so firmly locked into the human mindset that they are afraid that now that Jacob has died, Joseph will exact revenge on them for their earlier treatment of him. Not only are they wary of Joseph’s true motives, believing his kindness was because of their father and not God, but also, they believe that Joseph’s forgiveness of them earlier was not genuine. Or perhaps they had not forgiven themselves, and that caused their skepticism. At any rate, their turmoil and fear floats just below the surface and is a bit heart breaking to see.
Gen 50:20 “You intended to harm me, but God intended it all for good….”
Throughout the commentary on Genesis, there has been a parallel drawn between Joseph and Jesus. It is something I have never thought of before and definitely something I would like to think on and read about further, but I can definitely see, in Joseph and Jesus, an unwavering trust and faith in God’s sovereignty, regardless of earthly circumstances. I want that type of unwavering faith, and the peace that it brings, in my life.
Rom 8:28 And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.
Lord, Thank You for this day, for this scripture, for this walk through the book of Genesis. Thank You for the unexpected lessons and the timely reminders encountered here. Thank You for the reminder at the end of Genesis that Yours is the way of peace and hope. Help me to trust and obey. Draw me closer. Amen.
Gen 50:21 “So then, don’t be afraid. I will provide for you and your children.” And he reassured them and spoke kindly to them.
Have a blessed day.
My faith, my life, my teaching–it's all a work in progress.