Bible Reading Blog
“Impacted By Something Divine”
Categories: Congregational Bible ReadingBIBLE READING: Genesis 42-45; Psalm 105.16-22
More than 20 years had passed since Joseph had seen his brothers. They did not recognize him, but he recognized them. As a flood of emotions filled his mind, Joseph treated his brothers harshly. (Genesis 42.9). He made wild accusations of them, adding fear to their already troubling situation (Genesis 42.14-17). Finally, he sent them home, but detained Simeon until they returned with Benjamin (42.19-20, 24). To complicate things, Joseph secretly had their money put back in their luggage. When they realized it was there, their hearts failed them (42.28). The whole circumstance was troubling, and they perceived God’s judgment on them for what they had done many years before (42.21-22, 28).
One could easily justify Joseph’s behavior, and really his brothers knew they didn’t ‘deserve’ mercy. However, as the story progressed, Joseph begins to change. On their next visit, he invited them to eat with him and gave them additional goods and money (Genesis 43.16; 44.1). Eventually he revealed his identity and wept with them (see Genesis 43.16, 30; 45.1-15). It is evident his change in demeanor was impacted by something profoundly Divine.
“…I am Joseph, who 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.” (Genesis 45.4b-5).
This moment revealed the impact of God’s word on Joseph. From the moment his brothers showed up, Joseph remembered the dreams God had given him (Genesis 42.9). He didn’t decry his experiences but realized that God had allowed his circumstances for good. Perhaps forgiveness was not Joseph’s natural bend, but he learned compassion and mercy as he observed God’s bigger plan. Those years in prison both tested and established his faith in God’s purposes (Psalm 105.18-19), and in this moment of resolution it became clear that God’s words changed his heart to forgive.
The fact is, we must learn these things just like Joseph. We will all be affected by the selfish, mean-spirited choices of others. This can seem unfair and may even cause doubts about the goodness of God. That’s because our natural bend is towards self-preservation and vindictiveness. But just like Joseph, we must allow God’s words to temper our behavior. God’s prevailing nature is both mercy and love, and he profoundly shows that despite our bad choices (Romans 5.10). Furthermore, God promises that he is working all things together for good (Romans 8.28). In the moment none of that seems reasonable. But we must have a broader perspective and a strong dose of humility.
We can’t always see how things will play out. We may not see a path ahead for healing or restoration. We may even throw hope out the window and become cynical and negative. But some of that is simply our immaturity and pride. The passage of time and life experience often bring much needed clarity. More importantly, they allow us to see the critical truths about God’s plans and purposes that didn’t make sense at first. God will be faithful, and so we must continue to ground ourselves in what he has said, looking forward to being vessels of his glory.
