But Joseph said to them, “Do not fear, for am I in the place of God? 20 As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good, to bring it about that many people should be kept alive, as they are today. 21 So do not fear; I will provide for you and your little ones.” Thus he comforted them and spoke kindly to them.
Ever since I was bitten by a large Irish Setter as a young boy, as well as dozens of encounters being chased by dogs on my bicycle, I have been skittish about dogs. No matter how many times people say don’t be afraid, I fear and I am told they can smell it. Joseph’s brothers may have felt the same way. Even though Joseph told them twice to not fear, the fear is palpable on the page of the Bible and no wonder. They had mistreated Joseph terribly and now that Jacob was dead, Joseph could exert his power over them and destroy them. This is where Joseph differed from his brothers. His brothers feared the sovereignty of Joseph while Joseph took comfort in the sovereignty of God.
Genesis chapters 37-50 teach us much about faith, forgiveness, and trusting God in all circumstances. We learned that wherever we are, God sent us there. We also learned that wherever we are, God is with us. Now we know that, even if man means it for evil, God means it for good. What good news for those of us who are easily afraid! Now that God removes all fear by securing us to himself through the blood of Jesus, we can believe him when he says in our darkest moments…
Do not be afraid. It is I.
Pastor Brad Boyer
Cape Community Church