If we taste the goodness of God ...

If we taste the goodness of God ...

 

 

Joseph's brothers didn't just send a messenger to Joseph;

they came themselves and fell before him, saying, "We are your slaves."

At that moment, he comforted them with earnest words:

"Do not be afraid.  Can I take the place of God?  

You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good

to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.

So then, don't be afraid. I will provide for you and your children"

(Genesis 50:18-21).

Since their father Jacob had died, Joseph's brothers were afraid

that Joseph might hold a grudge and seek revenge against them.

To reassure them, Joseph said, "Do not be afraid ... So then, don't be afraid ...."

I'm reminded of Isaiah 41:10:

"So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God.

I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand."

Joseph didn't just passively forgive his brothers who had intended to harm him

but actively cared for them and their children until he died at the age of 110 (Genesis 50:22, 26).

Joseph was able to do this because although his brothers had intended to harm him,

God turned it into good, enabling Joseph to save many lives.

In other words, Joseph tasted God's goodness (Psalms 34:8)

and therefore not only forgave his brothers but also cared for them until his death.

Similarly, when we taste God's goodness,

we can forgive those who have harmed us and serve them with love.