Today’s exhortation – motivated by love
What would you do if the person responsible for your greatest pain came to you for help and you had it in your power to do as you please with them? Everyday, many of us have to deal with forgiving those who have hurt us. And it’s even more hurtful when it’s your own flesh and blood. Joseph had to deal with the same scenario when his brothers came to him for help and he had the power to do as he pleased to them, but he forgave them. Though he treated them harshly, it was to see if they were still the same evil brothers who had sold him 22 years ago. He never meant to harm them because he was motivated by love and feared God. Just as Christ chose to forgive us saying, “Father forgive them, for they know not what they do.” (Luke 23:24)
Abraham Lincoln said, “Nearly all men can stand adversity, but if you want to test a man’s character, give him power.” Our Lord Jesus who has all power and authority to do as He pleases with us for our sins chooses to forgive us because He is love. He may permit trials and sufferings to come our way because it refines us and purifies us. This is the God who has the very hairs on our head numbered. He’s very aware of our difficulties. But in case we think He’s mean, He Himself suffered more than any man so that He would bring many sons and daughters into glory. Just as Joseph brought his family into prosperity. Amen
Francis Hans-Jorie
