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 all the wrongs we did to him?”
It is amazing how many families fall into disarray when there is a death, especially when there is a little money or property involved. But the disarray is not something new. It is simply that the person who died somehow prevented the eruption. Once that person is removed, out come the old fights and arguments. Joseph’s family is no exception. If you remember, Joseph’s brothers sold him into slavery. Wouldn’t you love to have some brothers who would sell you into slavery! Joseph had gotten over it years ago, but it was still very much at the forefront of their thinking. They invent a story out of their own insecurities and guilt. I am sure you have heard about fights and legal battles that break out after a death. And all this over a few dollars! Or even worse, over some pieces of junk left behind! Joseph possessed great power in the land of Egypt. He could have easily used that power to “get even.” But he didn’t! How many of us would be tempted to get even? Joseph’s brothers probably would have gotten even if the positions were switched. Joseph’s character, that had be formed through the great adversities, chose to exhibit the grace of God. Are there any people that you want to “get even” with? If there are, I want to encourage you to take some time to read Joseph’s story in Genesis. Allow God’s grace to work its work in your character. Then when God has worked in you, you will freely forgive and allow God’s grace to flow through you.
The Arnold Journey 