Genesis 37:12–20 ‘Before he reached them, they plotted to kill him.’ (v18)
What had probably for the brother’s started as just annoyance with Joseph and his showing off had, over time, become hatred and jealousy. So, when an opportunity presented itself, their hearts turn to murder, followed by covering up the dirty deed by lying about what had happened.
This part of Joseph’s story serves as a stark warning to us all that sometimes a seemingly small grudge can grow into something as dangerous as murderous intent. The brothers’ attitude towards Joseph had become all-consuming, to the point that murder was planned.
While we may not get quite as far as the brothers in working out how to get rid of someone, I wonder how many of us have wished someone dead. Or maybe there is some other sin in our lives that started off small but has grown into something much bigger.
Perhaps with a little bit of pride, as we looked at yesterday, we think we could never go down this road… I wonder if we had asked the brothers six months before this incident if they would consider killing Joseph, what their answer would have been.
A Prayer to Make:
‘Lord, help me to bring my hurt and my anger to You so it does not take root in my life and become something bigger. Amen.’
An Action to Take:
As far as it depends on you, seek to live in peace with others.
Scripture to Consider:
Ps. 139:1–6 and 139:23–24; Jas 1:13–15; Jer. 17:9–10; Eph. 4:22–27
