Freely Received, Freely Given

God spoke 2 things to me as I read these chapters.

First, Joseph, manager of Pharaoh’s entire household and ruler over all Egypt (45:8), now had the authority and power to avenge himself for what his brothers did to him. The brothers were now at Joseph’s mercy. The ball was now in Joseph’s court. The choice was Joseph’s!

As the years passed, God brought understanding to Joseph . . . that He had brought him, via his brother’s evil plans, to Egypt to preserve Joseph’s family so God could make them a great nation. (45:7) God is in control!!!

Everyone one of us have been hurt by a brother or a sister, both in our natural families and in the Body of Christ . . . intentionally or unintentionally. And we have also dished out the hurt, intentionally and unintentionally. We then have a choice to make . . . 1) to be offended and break relationship or 2) choose to extend grace and allow God to bring healing and restoration.

Joseph was not immune, but he made the right choice. Joseph understood God’s great grace and favor in his own life, and he then extended that same great grace and mercy and favor to his own brothers. If Joseph could do it then, how much more we can do it now because of the blood of Jesus and the power of the Holy Spirit who dwells within each of us.

The second thing that caught my attention is in 45:17-20. God’s plan of provision and blessing put in Pharaoh’s heart! The very best territory in the land of Egypt . . . Egyptian transportation to move them . . . and no need to bring their belongings because the best of all of Egypt’s was for them! Has God’s heart to provide for His people changed since then? No, he is still Jehovah Jirah, the God who has seen ahead and made provision . . . for this very moment and for every area of our lives!

God is in control! Will we trust Him to be in control of every area of our lives? Will we freely give what we have freely received . . . His love, His grace, His mercy, His forgiveness?