Have you ever felt like someone likes another person more than they like you? Maybe this favored person gets away with things for which you would get in trouble. Maybe they do not have to do as much work as you have to do. Or maybe they get more perks, presents, and prizes while you just get ignored. Sometimes, when we feel as if someone else is getting special treatment, we get angry. We get angry with the people who give the special treatment, and we get angry with the person who receives it.
Joseph, most beloved of Jacob’s sons, is hated by his envious brothers. Angry and jealous, Joseph’s brothers seize him and sell him into slavery. But Joseph’s story does not end there. Did he retaliate? Did he hate his brothers for their meanness and mistreatment?
No, Joseph was faithful to God throughout his life and God was with Joseph throughout his journey, granting him success in all he did. And, although he was sold into slavery, and landed in prison, Joseph was able to fulfill his destiny as second in command over all of Egypt. As for his brothers, Joseph teaches us to forgive others, just as God forgave us.