Such a simple title but such a profound resolution. Forgiveness is God’s gift to us to bring love and peace to a human condition like jealousy. While jealousy can be destructive to the participants, forgiveness heals and restores them.
In this chapter of Genesis, we see Joseph break the bonds of past rejection and the life circumstances that brought him to this place. He weeps in verses 2 and 14. Between these two verses, we find Joseph forgiving his brothers by explaining that God has been present with him and sent him on this long path to preserve them. This preservation would not only save their lives but also keep God’s promise to Abraham alive for generations to come. God took jealousy, an evil, and used it to bring about everlasting good. Joseph’s family was not only fed but restored to an abundant life together.
Do we hear the words spoken to us from Scripture and prayer? Do we realize that Jesus came to show us God’s purpose and will for our lives? Joseph knew this because he spent his life in contact with God through dreams, the Word, and prayer. We are so blessed to have direct contact with God through the Comforter, the Holy Spirit, who helps us hear His word to us from the Scriptures and through prayer. If we listen to our constant companion, we, too, can break the bonds of human conditions like jealousy. Our faith can take us to a place of trust, grace, and love; a healing like no other.
Linda Trier, your sister in Christ, lives in Granite Quarry, North Carolina. She is married to Jerry Trier. She is a retired high school Biology teacher who volunteers at an elementary school three mornings a week. She is very active in the life of her church—Wittenberg, Granite Quarry—and enjoys visiting those members who are not able to get to worship, sometimes bringing them Communion.
To Consider
How does being jealous, or being the recipient of jealousy, separate us from God??
What insights have you obtained from the 45th chapter of Genesis and how will they help you live a life that reflects our God?
Prayer
Dear holy, triune God, thank you for seeking us through the Holy Spirit, Your word and prayer. When we listen, you bring forgiveness, love and hope to us and end bonds of our human condition that would lead us on a path away from you. Help us to listen and use your Word as a foundation for our lives every day. In Your holy and precious name, we pray. Amen and Amen.