When Joseph’s brothers feared he would seek revenge for their past betrayal, he responded, “Am I in the place of God?” (Genesis 50:19, NASB). This simple question reveals a profound truth. Often, without realizing it, we try to step into God’s role. Whether through holding grudges, seeking personal justice, elevating human opinions over God’s Word, or assuming authority over others’ spiritual destinies, we can easily slip into behaviors that place us in God’s position. Joseph’s humility and trust in God’s plan remind us that certain roles belong solely to God, and that true peace comes from embracing our own place within His purpose.
Joseph’s attitude provides valuable lessons on trust, humility, and submission to God’s authority. Let’s explore some common ways we might mistakenly step into God’s role and how adopting Joseph’s perspective can lead us to live with greater contentment and purpose.
Recognizing God’s Hand in Hardships
Joseph understood that the hardships he faced were not pointless; they were part of God’s providential plan. He told his brothers, “You meant evil against me, but God meant it for good” (Genesis 50:20, NASB). Like Joseph, we may face difficulties that seem senseless, yet they could be blessings in disguise, meant for our growth or the good of others.
Paul reflects a similar attitude in his letter to the Philippians, “Now I want you to know, brethren, that my circumstances have turned out for the greater progress of the gospel” (Philippians 1:12, NASB). When we trust God, even in trials, we acknowledge His sovereignty over our lives.
Refusing to Seek Revenge
When wronged, our first instinct might be to seek revenge, but Joseph showed mercy to his brothers. Paul said, “Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good” (Romans 12:21, NASB). Joseph chose forgiveness over vengeance, understanding that “Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,” says the Lord (Romans 12:19, NASB). It takes strength to show grace and leave judgment in God’s hands.
Jesus exemplified this on the cross, asking God to forgive those who crucified Him, saying, “Father, forgive them; for they do not know what they are doing” (Luke 23:34, NASB). We’re called to follow His example, to “bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you” (Luke 6:28, NASB), and trust that God will set things right.
Being Wary of Human Creeds
Joseph’s attitude also cautions us against letting human teachings take the place of God’s Word. The Bible is our ultimate authority: “All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness” (2 Timothy 3:16, NASB). Yet, throughout history, people have been tempted to elevate human creeds, traditions, and interpretations to the same level as Scripture.
We must be careful not to pledge our loyalty to man-made doctrines. Jesus warned against adding to God’s Word, saying, “In vain do they worship Me, teaching as doctrines the precepts of men” (Matthew 15:9, NASB). Let us be committed to God’s Word alone and avoid placing our trust in human systems that seek to supplant His truth.
Leaving Judgment to God
No person has the authority to determine someone else’s eternal destiny—that is God’s role alone. “For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each one may be recompensed for his deeds in the body” (2 Corinthians 5:10, NASB). When we preach the Gospel, we’re sometimes accused of being judgmental. But in reality, we’re sharing God’s standards, not our own.
It’s crucial to understand that preaching God’s conditions for salvation is not judging—it’s obedience. “The word I spoke is what will judge him at the last day” (John 12:48, NASB). We must stay faithful to proclaiming God’s Word, while remembering that judgment belongs to the Lord.
Staying in Our Place
Much of today’s strife arises from trying to control what only God can control. We worry about things beyond our influence, take offense quickly, and seek to settle scores. But true peace comes from acknowledging our limitations and placing our trust in God’s sovereignty. “Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you at the proper time” (1 Peter 5:6, NASB).
Happiness and contentment come when we know our place and remain there. Instead of striving for control, let’s follow Joseph’s example—trusting in God’s plan, showing forgiveness, respecting His Word, and leaving judgment to Him.
The Simple Gospel 