How does Genesis 45:22 encourage us to treat those who have wronged us? An unexpected gift of grace “ He gave new clothing to each of them, but to Benjamin he gave three hundred shekels of silver and five sets of clothes.” (Genesis 45:22) Joseph’s response to betrayal • Years earlier, these very brothers stripped Joseph of his robe and sold him (Genesis 37:23–28). • Now governor of Egypt, Joseph answers their cruelty with lavish kindness—new garments for every brother, abundant riches for Benjamin. • The generosity is immediate, voluntary, and public; there is no hint of grudging or delayed forgiveness. Key lessons for treating those who wrong us • Forgive freely before they earn it. Joseph’s gifts precede any restitution from the brothers. • Replace a painful memory with a blessing. Where his robe was taken, he now clothes them (cf. Romans 12:21). • Give more than the minimum. Joseph’s extravagance mirrors God’s abundant mercy toward us (Ephesians 1:7–8). • Guard the relationship’s future. Practical provision removes fear of famine and opens the door to reconciliation (cf. Luke 6:35). • Trust God’s sovereignty. Joseph sees God’s hand even in past wounds (Genesis 45:5–8), freeing him to love without resentment. Scripture echoes that reinforce the principle • Proverbs 25:21–22—feeding an enemy “heaps burning coals on his head.” • Matthew 5:44—“Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.” • Romans 12:17–19—“Do not repay anyone evil for evil… leave room for God’s wrath.” • Ephesians 4:32—“Be kind and tender-hearted, forgiving one another, just as in Christ God forgave you.” • 1 Peter 3:9—“Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult, but with blessing.” Practical ways to live this out today • Initiate reconciliation quickly—send a note, make a call, give a thoughtful gift. • Meet a tangible need of the offender—offer help, resources, or time. • Speak words that clothe them with dignity—affirm their worth rather than rehearsing the hurt. • Maintain generosity even if trust must rebuild slowly—kindness and healthy boundaries can coexist. • Remember God’s larger story—He can use past wrongs for present good, just as He did for Joseph. Blessings that follow merciful treatment • Personal freedom from bitterness (Hebrews 12:15). • Restoration of fractured families and friendships. • A living testimony of the gospel’s power (John 13:35). • God’s favor upon the peacemaker (Matthew 5:9). |
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