CONSEQUENCES

Genesis 37:28. “…and sold Joseph to the Ishmeelites for twenty pieces of silver.” Genesis 42:21. “…we are verily guilty concerning our brother.” CONSEQUENCES.

• Hunger, hasty words, differences, actions that cannot be retrieved.
• Wrong values, temporary satisfaction, restlessness, short temper, living only for today, self- centeredness.
• Incompatibility, in-law problems, long absences, tension, dissatisfaction.
• Trembling, fearful words, missed blessing, loud crying, bitterness, seeking for what was lost, anger, hatred, murder in the heart.
• Life-long strife, half-hearted reconciliation, strangers in a sense, no room for both brothers, mountain living, enmity for generations to come. Poor, lost Esau – he made a bad sale!

• Jealousy, envy, personality clashes, anger, murder in the hearts, tragedy alleviated – just barely.
• Covetousness, deceit, lies, mourning, years of absence, famine, fear of death.
• Pressure to survive, hunger increasing, danger of death, distant hope, uncertainty, finally action, desperation, consciences awakened.
• Miles, heat, weariness, rough words, accusations, challenges, charges laid, fear, prison, consciences screaming, turning against each other, separation.

• Serious fear of reprisal, stomachs churning, knees weak, hopeless again, humiliation total.
• Repentance, confession, honesty finally, nothing left but truth, loud weeping, a voice, total silent fear, grief deeper than ever before.
• Forgiveness, kiss of kindness, tears of repentance and joy, voices raised in fellowship long lost, commands, instruction, obedience, light hearts, light steps, miles speeding by, restoration.
• Life begins again, joy deep and satisfying, provision abundant, family unity, a happy father. Joseph’s family all together – a bad sale, but God meant it for good!