Joseph’s Emotions

Then Joseph hurried from the room because he was overcome with emotion for his brother. He went into his private room, where he broke down and wept.

Genesis 43:30

Throughout the story of Joseph's encounter with his brothers, he seemed to be toying with them. In Chapter 42, his heart was touched when his brothers expressed remorse for having mistreated Joseph so many years ago. Then, in Chapter 43, Joseph was overcome with emotion when he finally met his beloved full brother, Benjamin.

Like Joseph, we have been taught to keep our emotions inside, especially if they might be expressed with tears. Oh, our culture might allow for a measure of weeping in special moments, at weddings or at funerals. But, by and large, we're to keep our untidy feelings hidden inside. Yet, every now and then, something moves us so deeply that we can't keep the emotional lid on. Like Joseph, we scurry to a place of privacy where we can let our feelings out.

If we attend to these emotions, we can learn a great deal about ourselves. Moreover, God can guide us through our passion and compassion. He who speaks to our minds also moves our hearts.

QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION: When do you experience strong emotions? What do you do with them? What might God be saying to you through your feelings of passion and compassion?

PRAYER: Dear Lord, I confess that I often fight to keep my emotions inside. In the process I can squelch, not only healthy human emotion, but also the guidance of your Spirit. Compassion for others that flows from you can be bottled up by my efforts to keep my feelings in line.

To be sure, my emotions can also lead me astray, so I need your Word to align my life. But I would ask you today to make my heart more like yours. Give me a passion for your truth and justice. May I feel new compassion for the lost and for those who are suffering. Most of all, may I be passionate for your glory! Amen.