Bibledoorajar Looks at Giving Up Self-Deception

     Jacob's ten sons have been on a journey of enlightenment. Slowly and patiently Joseph led them through events that highlighted within them their great guilt in disposing of Joseph and bringing pain to their father. In a conversation among themselves, Joseph overhears them admit their guilt. Joseph provided atonement for their great sin by returning their money in their sacks as they left Egypt. They may be forgiven, but it would not be a forgiveness bought with money. Rather, it would be a free gift to men who had given up their self-deception and admitted their sinful nature. Now, Joseph has asked them to bring Benjamin to him. He desired to see how Benjamin had been treated by them. Had they mistreated him as they did Joseph? Was the negativity that led them into temptation lessened? Had their vision of themselves and their world been impacted by what Joseph had asked of them? In short, were they humbled and ready to call Joseph their friend and brother?

     Years later the Greater Son had many conversations with His disciples. He called them His friends, but had many serious conversations about the perils of temptation and the problems of self deception. He asked them to view the peril as if a millstone were around their neck pulling them and others under. Such a condition does not leave one in a position to live freely or to be in a position to freely help others. Jesus told them that He would send a Friend, A Wonderful Counselor, after He was gone. Like Joseph to his brothers, this Holy Spirit would not leave us alone in our difficulties. But rather He, too,  sees us through even as He convicts us of our sin. What a wonderful provision, rescue and Gift.