I am using the daily Bible reading schedule from “The Bible.net” for my daily Bible reading.

Today, I am reading and commenting on Genesis 45-47.

Joseph believed that everything which had happened to him had happened as part of God’s plan.  He tested his brothers to see if they would now be willing to accept him.  He saw in Judah’s impassioned plea for Benjamin’s freedom evidence that his brothers truly regretted what they had done to him.  However, his willingness to forgive them was not based on their change in attitude.  Joseph was willing to forgive them because he truly believed that their actions which brought him hardship served God’s purposes.  We should similarly view those who do us wrong as tools which God is using to bring better things into our lives.  Joseph fully believed the same thing which Paul writes in the New Testament, “All things work together for good for those who love the Lord.”  This belief formed the foundation of his willingness, even eagerness, to forgive his brothers.  We should share that desire to forgive others.