We need to acknowledge the broken relationship in our life and find ways to mend them.
In Genesis 42, we continue to read about Joseph's story. He became the prime minister of Egypt. He was responsible to sell grains. He recognized his brothers but pretended he did not. He spoke harshly to them. He also remembered his two dreams. He now saw 10 brothers bowing to him.
Joseph had an opportunity to avenge himself. But he wanted to take the opportunity mend his broken relationship with his brothers.
When there is a broken relationship, we need to acknowledge it, admit our mistakes and forgive.
Joseph's brothers wanted to kill him because Jacob loved him more. There is a generational gap between the parents and children today. The older generation thinks we should not verbalize our love. The family today finds it hard to say I love you, I'm sorry and thank you.
Children are impatient with parents. Parents give in the all the children's request. This may result in a broken relationship.
Husband and wife have the same problems. The divorce rate is high. Divorce is not an option for Christians. If we are to love others like ourselves, why are there still problems?
In Gen, we see that God created Adam in his own image. Eve is created from Adam's rib. Man and woman complement one another. When man falls, lots of problems arise. There is a communication breakdown. Another cause is the couple not clear with their respective responsibilities. The husband is the encourager. The wife wants to listen to the husband. The wife is the supporter of the husband. The husband needs the respect and support of the wife. The husband is the lead the family. He is the leader but not the king. He should use his authority in love and give security to the family. Wife is normally more spiritual. She should be the helpmate. The original Hebrew for helpmate is to surround.
1Ti 5:8 But if anyone does not provide for his relatives, and especially for members of his household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.
The husband is to provide. The wife is to manage the household.
The husband is the prayer warrior. He is to protect the family lead the family in spiritual warfare. The wife is the intercessor in the family.
Hudson Taaylor and John Wesley both grew up in praying families.
If we do not take responsible for our own things, the burden will fall on the other or it will be neglected.
When we noticed a broken relationship, we need to take the first step towards reconciliation. Joseph might want to know if his brothers had changed.
We need to forgive, i.e. to forget the debts unconditionally. In Matthew, we learn that if we forgive others, we will be forgiven by God. We ask God to help us.
Sometimes, we ask God to forgive us but we refuse to let go of something someone did to us.
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