In Genesis 45, Joseph finally reveals himself to his brothers in his glory and exultation. The brothers are troubled at this revelation, but Joseph earnestly tells them it is he, Joseph, who is ruler of all Egypt and a father to Pharaoh. In this moment, Joseph, not vengeful in the least, comforts his brothers, telling them that they should not be angry with themselves for what they had done to him.  Joseph understood that it was God who had sent him to Egypt to preserve life.

Because he realized this, Joseph was able to forgive. Whether or not we forgive others depends upon our vison and realization. If we see that we are here for the Lord’s purpose, we shall realize that whatever happens to us is for good. Rather than seek revenge, we see the depth of what God has done and realize that it is God working in our environment for our good and even for the good of all God’s people.

Once Joseph’s glory was revealed, he only lacked one thing: his father’s presence. Surely he could have immediately sent for him. However, we see that Joseph was absolutely restricted from doing anything for his own self-interest.  When he was enthroned, he did nothing to bring his father to Egypt. When his brothers came, neither did he exercise his power to do something for himself. Eventually it was Pharaoh who suggested to Joseph that he send for his father and whole household and bring them to Egypt. It was then that Joseph was able to see his father again.

Joseph would not act according to his own desire, even though he had the position and the power. He waited on God to arrange the circumstance and the time. In total Joseph waited more than 9 years after his enthronement to be reunited with his father. Joseph was restricted and lived a self-denying life with no self-interest, self-feeling, self-ambition, or self-goal.

Today God needs such people for His kingdom. We must also learn to be restricted in ourselves, to not act ahead of God, and to let Him initiate everything.