Forgiven

Gen 50:15 And when Joseph’s brethren saw that their father was dead, they said, Joseph will peradventure hate us, and will certainly requite us all the evil which we did unto him.

Fear is a highly destructive emotion. It distorts clear thinking and finds an ally in guilt and uncertainty. The death of Jacob creates an instant vacuum of leadership …and fears suddenly surface. Leadership is important in all situations. The Pastor must be a leader and not a club manager …the father must be a leader and not a quiet coach … businesses and nations need leadership. Leaders can be imperfect and may God spare us from evil leadership …but absence of leadership in any situation gives a green light to chaos. Jacob was hardly buried and imaginations begin to run riot.

Guilt and fears arise and it seems certain that Joseph will revenge now that Jacob was buried. It is difficult to understand forgiveness more because it is a divine gift … Joseph was enabled by the spirit of God to release hurts that were so deep. The brothers of Joseph did not understand how or why Joseph should forgive.

As you meditate on this text. Reflect on the truth that forgiveness is not a natural reaction. Most people control their actions well but are only compelled to postpone demonstration of revenge until the opportunity presents itself in a more convenient form that covers their real agenda of revenge. For Joseph that opportunity has now come. Joseph, as a leader, could easily organize processes and events that will inflict pain on his brothers at the same time pretending innocence. This is a common abuse of office.

“Are you a leader”… is there a leadership vacuum in your situation? do you lead in your home as the father? What kind of leader are you? Are you full of tricks masking your inability to forgive and thirst for revenge. Ask God to search you and to give you the gift from Heaven to truly forgive others. How do you take decisions when there seems to be none to challenge or hold you to account … remember that God holds you accountable. God forgives and the blood of Jesus cleanses us … do not allow past guilt to trap you into fears. God’s grace that brought you safe thus far will surely lead you home

Song.

Amazing Grace, how sweet the sound,

That saved a wretch like me.

I once was lost but now am found,

Was blind, but now I see.

T’was Grace that taught my heart to fear.

And Grace, my fears relieved.

How precious did that Grace appear

The hour I first believed.

Through many dangers, toils and snares

I have already come;

‘Tis Grace that brought me safe thus far

and Grace will lead me home.

Prayer : Lord help me to receive your forgiveness and more grace to forgive others. Amen

The Songs of Joseph is an integration of encouragement scriptural devotions, prayers and a compendium of songs of mercy, salvation, new beginnings and victory. We can expect as we trust and obey that our end will indeed be ultimately glorious because God works His marvellous agenda. Be blessed as you read and sing along, daily. Edited by Bolade Apampa