Old Testament: Gen 45.4

To read the Bible in a year, read Genesis 44–45 on January 19, In the year of our Lord Christ 2025

By Don Ruhl 

Joseph had just told his brothers that he was Joseph, and not a mere Egyptian. They were obviously dismayed in his presence. 

However, he told them again, asking them to get closer: “And Joseph said to his brothers, ‘Please come near to me.’ So they came near. Then he said: ‘I am Joseph your brother, whom you sold into Egypt’” (Genesis 45.4). 

Not only did he reaffirm who he was, but he reminded them of what they had done, although from the story it seems that he did so in a gentle and non-accusatory way. 

He was glad to see them and to be reunited, but they could see all the power that he had and considering what they had done to him, they feared. 

However, harboring no bitterness toward them, he wanted them closer, not to harm them but to embrace them. 

Questions: 

• Is being bitter against someone, helping you to be a better person? 
• What is the best way to remove bitterness from your heart? 

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Don preaches with the Savage Street Church of Christ in Grants Pass, Oregon. 

Listen to his sermons here: GrantsPassChurchOfChrist.com