Joseph Calms His Brothers’ Fears

¹⁵ Now that their father was dead, Joseph’s brothers were worried. They said, “Remember all the bad things we did to Joseph? What if he decides to hold those things against us? What if he pays us back for them?” ¹⁶ So they sent a message to Joseph. They said, “Your father gave us directions before he died. ¹⁷ He said, ‘Here’s what you must say to Joseph. Tell him, “I’m asking you to forgive your brothers. Forgive the terrible things they did to you. Forgive them for treating you so badly.” ’ Now then, please forgive our sins. We serve the God of your father.” When their message came to Joseph, he wept.

¹⁸ Then his brothers came and threw themselves down in front of him. “We are your slaves,” they said.

¹⁹ But Joseph said to them, “Don’t be afraid. Do you think I’m God? ²⁰ You planned to harm me. But God planned it for good. He planned to do what is now being done. He wanted to save many lives. ²¹ So then, don’t be afraid. I’ll provide for you and your children.” He calmed their fears. And he spoke in a kind way to them.