June 28, 2024
Repaying Evil -- Part 5
Genesis 50:19-21
06/28/2024
19 But Joseph said to them, ``Do not fear, for am I
in the place of God?
20 As for you, you meant evil against me, but God
meant it for good, to bring it about that many
people should be kept alive, as they are today.
21 So do not fear; I will provide for you and your
little ones.'' Thus he comforted them and spoke
kindly to them. (ESV)
This week we have been looking at the account in Genesis of
Joseph, the prince of Egypt, forgiving his brothers. That
forgiveness was not earned by his brothers, it was a gift.
Joseph told them:
But Joseph said to them, ``Do not fear, for am I in the
place of God? As for you, you meant evil against me,
but God meant it for good, to bring it about that many
people should be kept alive, as they are today.'' So
do not fear; I will provide for you and your little
ones.'' Thus he comforted them and spoke kindly to
them.
There are two lessons we find from this story. First, if we
confess our sins, God will forgive them for the sake of the
innocent suffering and death of Jesus Christ. Even as Jesus
burst forth from the tomb, so are we loosened from the bonds of
death which are the result of sin.
Second, even when we are sinned against, God will use this
as a blessing. We may not see that blessing, but we trust that
His Word is true, that His love extends completely over those for
whom His Son died.
Come to Trinity Lutheran Church each Sunday at 9:00 a.m. to
hear more of this incredible and unbelievable love that God has
richly poured out upon you. Come and hear that, for the sake of
Jesus, you are declared holy in God's sight. Because you are
God's child, He does comfort you in every trial.
May our Lord continue to bless and keep you. Amen.