We in a throw-away culture.
Use it up, wear it out, make it do, or do without.
We have an ingrained cultural expectation that everything is , and if it stops working for us, we’ll just throw it away and get a new one.
Sadly, we often have the same mindset about human relationships today.
Why are human relationships worth the effort despite the trouble they might bring?
Genesis 45:1-8
What is wrong with Joseph?
Genesis 37:3-4
So what does Joseph do?
What Joseph does is teach us why relationships are so important despite the trouble they may bring.
First, Joseph teaches us that relational might be for our own spiritual formation.
Genesis 41:16
Difficulties lead us into a spiritual wilderness which becomes the school for our growth where God grows inside of us His deeper love.
Second, Joseph teaches us that relational trouble might be God’s way of working all things for our good.
Genesis 45:5
How has God used relational trouble for your own good?
Last but not least, Joseph teaches us that relational trouble might be God’s way of teaching us the value of His forgiveness.
In a very real sense, if we give up on relationships with other people, we are giving up on God who made us in His image to be in relationship with Him and with each other.
What is God teaching you through your most difficult relationships?