This week we're talking about forgiveness from Genesis chapter 45 verse 5. “Do not be distressed or angry with yourselves because you sold me here for God sent me before you to preserve life.”

Sold as a slave, falsely accused, and thrown in prison. This all happened because Joseph's brothers had hated him. Yet here we see Joseph not only forgiving his brothers for this mistreatment, but also asking them to forgive themselves. Imagine how many times Joseph had the opportunity to reflect on the wrongs done to him because his brothers hated him, but he did not become bitter. Instead, by the grace of God, he began to see things through God's eyes.

All this happened so he could later save lives. Joseph granted forgiveness to his brothers because he could see that God was in control and had a plan, even for the pain that he endured. The same is true for us. God has a plan for the wrongs that have been done to us, and we need to forgive knowing that God can yet redeem the pain we have experienced. Just like God forgave you, even if it's family or friends or co-workers, anybody that is wrongs you, give forgiveness to them as God forgave you.

So let me finish out praying for us. Help me to forgive as Joseph forgave. I want to see the things in the light of eternity. Help me to have a heart of forgiveness, regardless of who it is or what has been done. Allow me to be forgiving just as you have forgiven me. In Jesus name we pray, Amen.