"'This is what you are to say to Joseph: I ask you to forgive your brothers the sins and the wrongs they committed in treating you so badly.' Now please forgive the sins of the servants of the God of your father." When the message came to him, Joseph wept. Genesis 50:17
How many times does God weep when we ignore all He has done for us?
In the eyes of the world, Joseph had every right to take revenge for all his brothers had done. Now, Joseph's brothers were afraid. Their father was dead, and they could no longer hide from their sins. His brothers begged for forgiveness - forgiveness that had already been granted and proven by Joseph's actions over the years. Their very lives were owed to Joseph. His wisdom and position had saved them from certain death during the great famine, and they now enjoyed the prosperity of Goshen. Upon hearing their request, Joseph wept. How could his brothers be asking for forgiveness now? Couldn't they see how much he loved them?
Lord, time and time again You have proven Your forgiveness. The blessing I enjoy from Your hand is great. Yet, I still feel unforgiven on occasion. The enemy taunts me with memories of sins long-since forgiven, and I find myself begging to be forgiven all over again. Oh, there is always new sin. My heart continues to deceive me, and I fail You. But the sins of yesterday sometimes weigh me down.
Does this make You weep?
When I dwell on forgotten sins, it must sadden You. Your heart's desire is for each of Your children to soar above the wearies of this world, yet so often we cling to the chains that keep us from flight.
Help me, Father, to live with anticipation of blessing rather than fear over punishment that will never come. Jesus already received it on my behalf. Forgive me for disregarding the cross. Make me a man of great joy rather than great sorrow.
I am forgiven! Praise God for all He has done!