What steps can we take to reconcile with those we have wronged? Setting the Scene Genesis 37:18: “Now Joseph’s brothers saw him in the distance, and before he arrived, they plotted to kill him.” Joseph’s brothers took a first step toward an offense that would haunt them for years. Their later journey back to Joseph (Genesis 42–45) becomes a masterclass in reconciliation. From their story—and from the whole counsel of Scripture—we can trace clear, practical steps for making things right when we’ve wronged someone. Recognizing the Wrong Before action, there must be honest awareness. Joseph’s brothers eventually admit, “Surely we are guilty concerning our brother” (Genesis 42:21). Without this awakening, no healing can begin. Step 1: Admit the Sin • Proverbs 28:13: “He who conceals his sins will not prosper, but whoever confesses and renounces them will find mercy.” • Name the offense plainly—no excuses, no blame-shifting. • Use “I” statements: “I lied,” “I betrayed,” “I was jealous,” mirroring Joseph’s brothers’ confession. Step 2: Approach the Person • Matthew 5:23–24: leave the gift at the altar, first be reconciled. • Reconciliation is personal; send the message, make the call, schedule the visit. • Joseph’s brothers travel to Egypt, standing face-to-face with Joseph—distance closed, vulnerability displayed. Step 3: Offer Specific Restitution • Luke 19:8–9: Zacchaeus vows fourfold repayment; Jesus calls it evidence of salvation. • Ask, “How can I make this right?” and be ready to follow through, whether financial reimbursement, public correction, or practical service. • Genesis 43:11–12: Jacob sends gifts and double silver—tangible acknowledgement of harm done. Step 4: Seek Forgiveness from God • Psalm 51:4: “Against You, You only, have I sinned.” • 1 John 1:9: confess, receive cleansing. • Joseph’s brothers’ plea—“God has uncovered your servants’ guilt” (Genesis 44:16)—shows vertical repentance that undergirds horizontal restoration. Step 5: Practice Ongoing Humility • 2 Corinthians 7:10–11: godly sorrow produces earnestness, eagerness to clear oneself, indignation at sin. • Joseph tests his brothers (Genesis 44); they prove changed, offering themselves as slaves for Benjamin. Continual humility demonstrates repentance is real. Step 6: Extend and Receive Grace • Ephesians 4:32: “Be kind and tenderhearted to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” • When we’ve wronged someone, we need their grace; when they respond, we accept it gratefully, committing to live differently. Bringing It All Together Joseph’s saga moves from murderous plotting (Genesis 37:18) to tear-soaked embrace (Genesis 45:14–15). Our path to reconciliation follows the same God-given pattern: admit the sin, approach the person, offer restitution, seek God’s forgiveness, walk in humility, and live under grace. Taking these steps invites the same restoration Joseph and his brothers experienced—a picture of how God heals broken relationships today. |
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