Genesis 42-43 | A Clear Conscience

Then they said to one another, “Truly we are guilty concerning our brother, because we saw the distress of his soul when he pleaded with us, yet we would not listen; therefore this distress has come upon us.” Reuben answered them, saying, “Did I not tell you, ‘Do not sin against the boy’, and you would not listen? Now comes the reckoning for his blood.” (Genesis 42:21-22)

Joseph's brothers had tried to murder him. If it were not for one merciful brother, he would have died in the pit they put him in, but one brother (under God's sovereign hand) had him sold into slavery instead. Can you imagine living the rest of your life with the weight of this sin around your neck?

A HEAVY LOAD

Unrepentant guilt and unresolved conflict never naturally goes away. It lies dormant for the opportune moments. The cloud hovers.

When the conscience is not clear, there is a heavyweight and everything that happens in the future is interpreted in light of that past sin.

Everyone sins, but everyone does not have to live with the guilt of their sin. There is a way to find cleansing if we will humble ourselves, admit our sin, and run to Christ. He paid for it all on Calvary and not only the sin, but the GUILT of that sin can be removed. We must take steps to get right with God and then right with any they have wronged.

Carrying the past is a high price to pay for refusal to simply be honest and deal with our sins God's way.

Father, forgive us for our sins. Thank You that Calvary has paid the price so that we can be lifted from a load of an unclear conscience. Help us to quickly, fully deal with our sins before You and others.