How can Genesis 37:20 warn us against harboring resentment towards others? Setting the scene Genesis 37:20: “Come now, let us kill him and throw him into one of the cisterns. We can say that a vicious animal has devoured him. Then we shall see what becomes of his dreams!” The root of resentment • Joseph’s brothers nursed jealousy over their father’s favoritism (Genesis 37:3–4). • Their silent bitterness grew unchecked until it erupted in murderous intent. • Scripture presents this account as literal history, showing where harboring resentment can lead every human heart (Jeremiah 17:9). A progression of sin 1. Hurt feelings → “They hated him and could not speak peaceably to him.” (Genesis 37:4) 2. Envy → “They were jealous of him.” (Genesis 37:11) 3. Plotting evil → “Let us kill him…” (Genesis 37:20) 4. Violent action → They sold Joseph into slavery (Genesis 37:28). Personal application: warnings for us • Resentment distorts judgment; the brothers convinced themselves murder was reasonable (Proverbs 14:30). • Bitterness spreads—ten brothers agreed, proving how sin infects community (Hebrews 12:15). • Secret sin seeks cover-ups; they devised a lie for their father (Genesis 37:31-33; Ephesians 4:25). • Unchecked anger places us spiritually alongside Cain, “Everyone who hates his brother is a murderer” (1 John 3:15). Guarding our hearts • Acknowledge jealousy quickly; confess it as sin (1 John 1:9). • Submit emotions to God’s truth—He sovereignly distributes gifts and favor (Romans 9:20-21). • Replace resentment with thanksgiving and intercession for the other person (Philippians 1:3-4). • Seek reconciliation at once; Jesus commands leaving a gift at the altar to make peace (Matthew 5:23-24). Living out forgiveness in Christ • Christ bore our grudges on the cross, freeing us to extend the same grace (Ephesians 4:31-32). • The Spirit empowers new desires, enabling genuine love instead of envy (Galatians 5:22-26). • When wronged, trust God’s perfect justice—He vindicated Joseph in His time (Genesis 50:20; Romans 12:19). |