We reached the turning point on Sunday in our study of Genesis 37-50. Joseph revealed his identity and the brothers are reunited! As Joseph listened to Judah plead with him to take Benjamin's place, Joseph knew that Judah was not the same man he once was. And that led to Joseph revealing his identity. More than reveal himself, Joseph forgave his brothers! How, in light of what they had done to him, could he do that? Joseph said it best himself…

"And now do not be distressed or angry with yourselves because you sold me here, for God sent me before you to preserve life…So it was not you who sent me here, but God." - Genesis 45:5,8

Wow! Joseph had learned through the heartache and pain of his trial that God was actually working for good, using the cruelty of his brothers to lead to their very salvation! Joseph knew that though his brothers had sinned against him, God was ultimately at work to save many people from starvation. Now Joseph probably didn’t know that God was also saving the family line of Jesus! It reminds me of the words of Iain Duguid,

“If we were able to recognize that God’s gracious work continues even through the sins of others, we would learn better how to forgive.”[1]

How could the Lord take something painful you have experienced and bring about good? Do you believe that he can? When in trials or testing, what do you believe about God? May Joseph's example inspire us all!

[1] Iain Duguid, Living in Light of Inextinguishable Hope, pg. 120