Burying the Past

Click here for today's reading: Gen 46–50 | Prov 7:15–27 | Luke 16

Scripture: "You planned evil against me; God planned it for good to bring about the present result—the survival of many people." CSB— Genesis 50:20

Joseph’s brothers struggled to believe they were truly forgiven. Though they had heard Joseph’s words, seen his tears, felt his kisses, and received his kindness (Gen. 45:1–15), fear still controlled their hearts. They assumed grace had limits. Like the prodigal son, they offered to work their way into favor rather than rest in forgiveness (Luke 15:19).

Joseph wept—not because of past betrayal, but because his brothers could not trust grace. Their doubt reopened wounds that God had already healed. Joseph reminded them that while their intentions were evil, God’s purposes were good. God did not excuse their sin, but He overruled it for redemption. What was meant to destroy became the means by which God saved many lives.

When we keep resurrecting forgiven sin, we grieve our Lord. Christ has fully paid our debt, and nothing can separate us from His love (Rom. 8:31–39). To live in fear of punishment after forgiveness is to forget the power of grace.

Reflection: Are you holding onto guilt that God has already buried? Trust God’s verdict and live free from what He has redeemed.

Prayer: Lord, help me believe Your forgiveness completely. Teach me to bury the past and walk confidently in Your grace.