An Excellent Spirit - Part 3

One more lesson from Joseph’s question in Genesis 50:19 …Am I in the place of God?

Humanly speaking, Joseph had every “right” to seek revenge for all his brothers had done to him, and they knew it. Which is why they sent the lie by the mouth of a servant about Jacob asking forgiveness on their behalf prior to his death. But Joseph understood that vengeance belonged to God. Sure, he gave them a rough (Genesis 42:7) time when they first came down to Egypt, and who can blame him? But ultimately he dared not “take matters into his own hands.”

And what an example for us. No matter what others may do, God still sits on His throne in heaven. And it’s not our place to make sure they get what they have coming, it’s His. As difficult as that might be to remember, it sure served Joseph well. And his attitude made him a vessel meet for the master’s use.

Genesis 50:20 But as for you, ye thought evil against me; but God meant it unto good, to bring to pass, as it is this day, to save much people alive.

Consider these verses on the revenge that Joseph refused to seek, then pray for the power to go and do likewise (Luke 10:37).

Psalm 94:1 O LORD God, to whom vengeance belongeth; O God, to whom vengeance belongeth, shew thyself.

Hebrews 10:30 For we know him that hath said, Vengeance belongeth unto me, I will recompense, saith the Lord. And again, The Lord shall judge his people.

1 Samuel 24:12 The LORD judge between me and thee, and the LORD avenge me of thee: but mine hand shall not be upon thee.

Leviticus 19:18 Thou shalt not avenge, nor bear any grudge against the children of thy people, but thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself: I am the LORD.

Romans 12:19 Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.