1 Chronicles 4:24-5:26; Ezekiel 7:1-27; John 1:19-51
And he comforted them, and spoke kindly to them. Gen. 50:21
Joseph had every reason to hold resentment toward his brothers. Yet he spoke kindly to them. Perhaps someone has broken their word to you; you’ve entered into a bad business deal or have an unfaithful spouse. Often when wronged we forgive, but we do not forget. Joseph had learned to forget his horrible treatment. The names of his sons show this. One means “causing to forget” (Manasseh) and the other, “I shall be doubly fruitful” (Ephraim). May we follow Joseph’s example not only to forgive but also to forget and treat our wrong-doers kindly. —K. J. W.
Forgive thy brother who has erred, and take him by the hand:
And, as you speak a generous word, assist his feet to stand. —Daniel C. Colesworthy