The Forgiveness Test
by Jill Southern
Joseph had undergone many tests and preparations before God allowed him to become the Prime Minister of Egypt. Joseph had now become rich, powerful and famous, but he had to go through another critical test. He had to forgive his brothers for wanting to kill him, for putting him down the pit and then selling him to Ishmaelite traders, who took him down to Egypt to sell him on as a slave.
Now the tables had been turned. Joseph was in charge of food distribution and Joseph’s family from back home were hungry. When his brothers came to Egypt for corn, he recognized them. He had the power for taking revenge – but what would he do?
He chose to extend his hand to forgive his brothers. Until he did so there would be a big unhealed area in Joseph that would affect his own destiny. He was able to say to them, ‘you intended to harm me but God intended it for good.’ Joseph had learnt that God brings good from evil for all those who trust in Him.
He saw the hand of God behind all that had happened and not only reassured his brothers of his forgiveness but also offered to care for them and their families. The dream had been fulfilled; Joseph had walked fully into his destiny of providing for Israel throughout the time of famine. Joseph was now ready to die. He had no doubts that God would keep his promise and one day bring the Israelites back to their homeland.
The secret of that kind of faith is a lifetime of trusting God. Your faith is like a muscle; it grows with exercise. And you can be certain God will always keep His promises to you.
Action line: Is there anyone you need to forgive? Are you willing to forgive EVERYONE EVERYTHING?
Prayer: Lord, help me to exercise faith today as I walk with You. I don’t want unforgiveness to stand between me and my destiny in God. Please help me to forgive those who have hurt me. Thank you that nothing is too hard for you. In Jesus name, Amen
Jill Southern is the founder of Ellel Ministries Pierrepont and directed the work for 21 years. She has recently stood down from that role but still teaches on the NETS programme and has the passion to train and equip God`s people to fully walk in their destiny and calling. She is the Regional Director for Ellel Ministries International in South East Asia and China and is also on the Executive Leadership of the ministry.
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