Forgiveness and Reassurance

Don’t doubt

Today’s Through the Bible Reading: Genesis 47:13 - 50:26

Abbreviated Reading: Genesis 48:21 - 49:27; 50:15-21

“But as for you, ye thought evil against me; but God meant it unto good…” Genesis 50:20

Today we’re finishing the book of Genesis. From the very beginning we’ve seen Jesus. God’s promise of a Redeemer is seen through the prophecies told, types and shadows established in the covenants, and the lives lived.

We saw back in Genesis chapter 37 how Joseph’s life was a shadow of Christ. That continues throughout his life and into today’s reading.

Today’s reading holds a wonderful picture of God’s grace and Jesus’ abundant forgiveness.

When Jacob died, Joseph’s brothers were concerned that Joseph would be more inclined to carry out any bitterness and anger he may have still harbored as a result of them selling him into slavery (Gen 50:15).

When Joseph heard this, the Bible tells us that “he wept” (Gen 50:17). He had already extended forgiveness, mercy, and provision but they still doubted and were unsure of the extent of Joseph’s forgiveness.

What a poignant picture of our response as Christians regarding the extent of Christ’s forgiveness towards us! Our hearts can condemn us – but God is greater than our heart! (1 John 3:20)

There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. Romans 8:1

God does not hold a record of our wrongs. Any documentation of our mistakes has been destroyed (Ps 103:12; Isa 43:25; Acts 3:19; Col 2:14). We are FORGIVEN. We are cleansed from all sin (I John 1:7) and God remembers our sin no more (Heb 10:17). We have peace with God through Jesus (Rom. 5:1).

If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 1 John 1:9

…He will cast all their sins into the depths of the sea. Micah 7:19

Like Joseph in today’s reading, there is only forgiveness and continual provision. Praise God for sending us His Son Jesus!