Strength to Weep
Joseph was a great and powerful man, admittedly, but he was also a real human being with real human emotions, who could step out of the corridors of power and have the strength to weep his heart out.
Written by Chuck Swindoll, these encouraging devotional thoughts are published seven days per week.
Joseph was a great and powerful man, admittedly, but he was also a real human being with real human emotions, who could step out of the corridors of power and have the strength to weep his heart out.
I love the steward's reassuring response: "Be at ease," he told them. The Hebrew Bible says, simply, "Shalom."
Genesis 43:1–12
So, their father, Jacob, finally said to them, “If it can’t be avoided, then at least do this. Pack your bags with the best products of this land. Take them down to the man as gifts—balm, honey, gum, aromatic resin, pistachio nuts, and almonds. Also take double the money that was put back in your sacks, as it was probably someone’s mistake." (Genesis 43:11–12)
Negative thinking. A horizontal viewpoint. A closed mind to something that is unexpected and new. That's why we tend to panic.
When God softens a seared conscience we begin to gain a different perspective.
Time doesn't erase distress. We have evidence of that in our own lives. We know from experience the inescapable reminders of our guilt.
The first step toward softening a seared conscience is taking responsibility for one's own personal guilt.
With authority comes the need for accountability. With popularity comes the need for humility. With prosperity comes the need for integrity.
God guided the writer of Genesis to reveal the truth about most every area of Joseph's colourful life.
During the waiting period, trust God without panic.