Morning Devotional 082125 Be Merciful

Liz’s Morning Devotional: Scripture selected from Upper Room

August 21, 2025

Genesis 50:15-21

15 When Joseph’s brothers realized that their father was now dead, they said, “What if Joseph bears a grudge against us, and wants to pay us back seriously for all of the terrible things we did to him?” 16 So they approached Joseph and said, “Your father gave orders before he died, telling us, 17 ‘This is what you should say to Joseph. “Please, forgive your brothers’ sins and misdeeds, for they did terrible things to you. Now, please forgive the sins of the servants of your father’s God.” Joseph wept when they spoke to him. 18 His brothers wept too, fell down in front of him, and said, “We’re here as your slaves.” 19 But Joseph said to them, “Don’t be afraid. Am I God? 20 You planned something bad for me, but God produced something good from it, in order to save the lives of many people, just as he’s doing today. 21 Now, don’t be afraid. I will take care of you and your children.” So he put them at ease and spoke reassuringly to them.

Good Morning! God creates goodness from our mistakes

God did not arrange for Joseph’s brothers to sell him into slavery, but God used the situation to save the lives of many. Joseph, who received visions from God, was able to change the ways of the Pharaoh so that the people could survive during the upcoming famine. 

Joseph could have had his brothers killed, thrown into prison, or allowed them to be his slaves. Instead, he forgave them and promised to take care of them and their families. Joseph showed great mercy to his brothers despite their awful treatment of him. 

God offers mercy to all who turn to Jesus and repent of their sins. We are all sinners, and despite our best intentions, we cause harm to ourselves and others because of our poor choices. 

Just as God forgives us, we are to forgive one another. In forgiveness comes blessings from God. 

Giving Lord, you bless us abundantly! Help us be quick to forgive and show mercy to those who surround us. Thank you. We love you, Lord! In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen

Thought for the day: Be quick to forgive, as Jesus taught us!

Be merciful to those who persecute you! Pastor Liz