Betrayal

Genesis 37:17-28

What is the worst thing a friend can do? Aside from any form of physical harm, which no friend should ever do to another, I would say betrayal is the cardinal sin of friendship. When betrayal comes from a family member it is even harder to deal with. In our reading today; Joseph experiences a betrayal from his own brothers that is down right cruel. It is important to note that Joseph's brothers had an additional reason to hate him other than the dreams he had received from the Lord. Their father, Jacob, considered Joseph his favorite son and treated him as such. While this is not right, nor God's design, it is a part of the narrative we should not ignore. However, in our reading, when the brothers conspire against Joseph, it is not his favored status that they acknowledge, it is the dreams. Notice one brother said, "...let's kill him... then we'll see what comes of his dreams." The fury and anger of the brothers burned against Joseph because of the dreams the Lord had given Joseph. In response, the brothers decide rather than killing him, they sell him into slavery. While today, slavery is significantly less than in the days of Joseph, family betrayal is still a very much alive. Whether it comes from a friend or a family member, the deep wound of betrayal is one I hope and pray you never experience. For those of us who have, I hope that you will see Joseph as an example to aspire to. A young man who despite the betrayal of those he thought loved him did not renounce his faith in the God who had already spoken to him. God's promises are not always worked out in the times we expect them to be. But, His Word is always true! 

Prayer: 
Gracious God, I want to know You more and trust You more. Please speak to me, help me to hear You and desire to obey You in all things. Lead me Lord, I am ready to follow You. Please help me to be courageous in the face of the emotional blows I have experienced. Thank You Lord. 

Reflection: 
Have you felt a crushing emotional blow from someone close to you? 
How did that affect your faith? 
How can you draw closer to God because of it?