2006-02-03 - In Search of a Father's Love

In Search of a Father's Love, Part 1

The brothers in Genesis chapter 37 are depicted as hateful, envious, and devious by selling their brother and covering up their actions. Their despicable act against an unknowing Joseph was their attempt at getting their father's attention and hopefully his love.

When Joseph's brothers saw him coming, they recognized him in the distance and made plans to kill him. "Here comes that dreamer!" they exclaimed. "Come on, let's kill him and throw him into a deep pit. We can tell our father that a wild animal has eaten him. Then we'll see what becomes of all his dreams!" Genesis 37:18-20 (NLT)

The first thing the brothers did when they saw Joseph was to get rid of his coat, a tangible reminder of the affection Jacob showed to Joseph and not to them. (verse 23) They didn't show any remorse or regret after throwing Joseph into an empty pit. In fact, they sat down to a meal close to the hole in which Joseph was trapped.

As individuals, the brothers didn't show much of a backbone. When Reuben, the oldest said he did not like the idea of killing Joseph, but throwing him into a pit was okay (thinking he would rescue the youngster later), the other nine agreed. When Judah suggested selling Joseph so they could make some cash, they all agreed. The brothers thought Joseph was their problem, but their real issues were resentment and jealousy. Joseph was just a scapegoat. Did they realize the results of their actions, or were they blinded by their desire for revenge and restitution?

It took little time for the ten to come up with a story to cover up the truth that they had a hand in Joseph's disappearance. Whereas Jacob took his sons at their word, TV detective Columbo probably would be inspecting the brothers' alibi and consider them suspects. Sometimes it takes a neutral party to see the hurt and pain a family member can't or won't see.

The brothers were living in a bleak existence and wanted Joseph to experience the same thing. By getting rid of Joseph, they could switch places and become the favored in their father's eyes, or so they thought.

Lord, If I am in denial about something, please bring it to my attention, so I can deal with it instead of letting the enemy use it for my destruction. I want you to use the experience for my growth and good. Thank you, my one true God. In Jesus' name I pray, Amen.

Lisa

lisa@cfdevotionals.org
http://www.cfdevotionals.org