Do you see the “big picture” enough to forgive?

Joseph in the Bible had a hard life.  He lost his birth right with his father which does not seem like a big deal to us but later in life he was sold as a slave by his family.  This is a BIG deal to anyone.

I would think this kind of behavior would be something that you just could not forgive.  Also, you would think that it would cause all kind of mental illness.  Later in life Joseph ran into his family and he had the potential of some power over them.  This is how he responded to them:

But Joseph said to them, “Don’t be afraid. Am I in the place of God? You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.  So then, don’t be afraid. I will provide for you and your children.” And he reassured them and spoke kindly to them.  Genesis 50:19-21 (NIV)

Do you blame others for all you have gone through?  Are you willing to be a loving to the people that have been the meanest to you?  What areas do you struggle to submit to God’s plan?  How might you embrace an attitude of submission to God this week?

image:  anthony posey