In
reading the biography of Joseph from the Genesis account, we see him coping
with slavery, being sentenced to indefinite imprisonment and facing a possible
lifetime separation from his family. All of this came about because of his
brothers’ hatred. They believed he got what was coming to him, so they cared
less what he had to endure.
I'm
sure Joseph resented his brothers in return for the suffering he had tolerated.
Suffering is as much a part of life as is pleasure. Parents suffer seeing their
children experience unhappiness regardless of its source. As adults we must learn
to cope with suffering brought on by life’s uncertainties and conflicts that
cannot be avoided.
Hate,
anger and resentment build bridges to alienation and suffering that are capable
of being prolonged indefinitely. Being unwilling to forgive shackles you to a
wall of loneliness where love and affection will diminish. Joseph chose to
forgive his brothers by stepping out in faith, believing God would bless him
for doing so. That can be your choice.
Anyone who
belongs to Christ is a new person. The past is forgotten, and everything is new.
~2 Corinthians 5:17 Good
News Bible
But that’s not
all! We gladly suffer, because we know that suffering helps us to endure. And
endurance builds character, which gives us a hope that will never disappoint
us. All of this happens because God has given us the Holy Spirit, who fills our
hearts with his love.
~Romans 5:3-5 Good
News Bible
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