Temptations - The Story of Joseph

Part 4: Bitterness

There is a famine in the Promise Land, so Jacob sends his sons to Egypt, hoping to buy grain. When they arrive, the brothers bow before Joseph and beg him for food. Joseph recognizes them and remembers his dream from 22 years prior. Joseph has every right to be angry, vengeful, and bitter at that moment – but he’s not.

Joseph recognized that God was with him. He didn’t get stuck asking why things happened the way they did or why God didn’t rescue him sooner. The truth is, the answers to these questions won’t bring peace; only the presence of God can satisfy us.

Joseph confronted the pain of his past and allowed himself to grieve. Joseph was a strong and powerful man who gave himself over to grief. Tears are an essential part of healing. We can be tempted to run past or sit in pain, but the Holy Spirit invites us to walk through it and experience healing with him.

Joseph pursued generosity that brought about revival. Joseph could forgive his brothers and bless them because he allowed himself to grieve the pain of his past and knew God was with him. Forgiveness doesn’t happen in the pit; forgiveness is an outpouring of your healing. We don’t forgive to be better. We forgive because we are better. We don’t forgive to be restored. We forgive because we are restored.