INTRODUCTION

Joseph Forgives His Brothers

Bible Point:

God wants us to forgive.

Key Verse:

“Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you” (Colossians 3:13).

Big Picture:

Practice forgiveness.

Joseph Forgives His Brothers

Genesis 42-45

When someone hurts you or treats you unfairly, it is normal to want that person to admit what they did and make it right. But learning to understand your own need for forgiveness, and learning to forgive others, is something that takes time.

This week you will explore the story of Joseph forgiving his brothers. You will see that everyone makes mistakes and needs grace. You will also discover that God freely offers forgiveness and invites you to share that same grace with others.

As you learn about Joseph, you will see that forgiveness can bring healing and peace. Choosing to forgive shows God’s loving character and helps your heart grow stronger and kinder.

PLANTING THE SEED

People all over the world were hungry because there was a famine going on. But Joseph, who was pretty much in charge of Egypt, had saved up lots of grain. Joseph’s brothers (all except Benjamin) went to Egypt to buy food. Joseph recognized them and told them to go home and get their youngest brother. When they arrived home, Jacob (their father) wouldn’t let Benjamin go. But then they became hungry again, so all the brothers (including Benjamin!) went back to Egypt. Joseph gave them food again but placed a silver cup in Benjamin’s bag to test whether his brothers had truly changed. After accusing Benjamin of stealing and seeing how his brothers were willing to sacrifice themselves to save Benjamin, Joseph saw that they had changed and he then told them who he really was and that he forgave them for how mean they had been to him.

BIBLE POINT

God wants us to forgive.

KEY VERSE

“Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you” (Colossians 3:13).

FAMILY FUN

Have fun one night this week by making “Forgiveness Food” for dinner! Try to think of as many “forgiveness phrases” as you can for things you like to eat. Then put them together for a fun meal. Here are a few to get you started: “Forgiveness French Fries,” “Please-Forgive-Me Fudge,” and “Forgiveness Fruit Salad.” As you eat, talk about how Joseph forgave his brothers.

READY, SET, GROW!

Choose a way this week you’ll forgive others.

• If someone hurts you this week, take a moment to ask God for a peaceful heart. Think about kind ways to bring understanding and healing to that relationship.

• If you feel upset with a family member, talk with that person when the time feels right. Share your feelings gently, and look for ways to bring peace and forgiveness between you.

• Think of a friend you’d like to grow closer to again. Write a short note or draw a picture to remind both of you that forgiveness and friendship are gifts from God that bring joy back into the heart.