Key Verse

Genesis 45:4-5 So Joseph said to his brothers, “Come near to me, please.” And they came near. And he said, “I am your brother, Joseph, whom you sold into Egypt. And now do not be distressed or angry with yourselves because you sold me here, for God sent me before you to preserve life.

Pastor Alex wrapped up the sermon series on Joseph this morning by showing how Joseph was a beautiful example of how to forgive. Joseph had every right to be bitter and angry with his brothers for selling him into slavery and lying to his father about it. Instead of having a heart for revenge and killing his brothers, Joseph gave them forGIVEness and provided for them, kissed them, wept with them, and talked to them. We, as Christ-followers, should have a heart for forgiveness as we follow the example of our heavenly Father who gave us forgiveness through the death of His son.

Questions to discuss as a family today

1. Do you have a heart of forgiveness? Why did you answer that way?

2. Name one person that you need to forgive for hurting you in some way.

3. How do you forgive them, and what can you GIVE them? (provision, hug, talking, etc.)

Prayer

Pastor Alex shared that our secret weapon for forgiveness is prayer. Begin this week by thanking God for His forgiveness and for the gift of Jesus and His sacrifice. Ask Him to change your heart towards those that have hurt you. Pray blessing and healing for those that have offended you, and confess to God that you want to forgive them. Pray that the Spirit would prompt you to know exactly how to best reconcile with those that you need to forgive. Thank Him for His faithfulness and guidance as you walk through this journey.

Remember, when we forgive…we reflect the cross!