HANDING THOSE WHO HURT YOU                           Genesis 50:15-21

As for you, you meant evil against me; but God meant it for good, to bring it about that many people should be kept alive, as they are today. (v20)

At seventeen, Joseph’s brothers sold him into slavery. At thirty, Pharaoh made him ruler of Egypt. During those thirteen years Joseph suffered at the hands of his brothers. Now he held power of life and death over them. Yet he chose not only to forgive them, but to feed them in the time of famine. It’s one of the greatest examples of forgiveness in history. As they stand trembling before him. Joseph says: “You intended to harm me, but God intended it all for good. He brought me to this position so I could save the lives of many people. No, don’t be afraid. I will continue to take care of you and your children. So he reassured them by speaking kindly to them” (vv 20:21 NLT) Notice four things (1)  Only God understands people’s hearts, therefore only He is qualified to judge them. (2) As you become more mature, you’ll be able to see the hand of God at work in some of the situations you’ve been through, (3) Because you have grown spiritually, you’ll acknowledge that others are capable of growing and changing too. (4)  Because of the favour and blessing that God has given you, you’ll only speak kindly to your offender but be generous toward them. Jesus said, “Love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you.” (Matthew 5:44 NKJV) Are you willing to do that?” (TWFT)

PRAYER LINE: Dear Lord, please give me discernment and courage in my relationships. Help me to have a gentle heart to forgive others as You have forgiven me.

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True love confronts and restores.