Refuse to advertise sin
“‘Make everyone go out from me.’ So no one stayed with him when Joseph made himself known to his brothers” (Gen. 45:1). Joseph protected his brothers by refusing to advertise their sin. Joseph’s brothers sinned against him. What happened was between them, it had nothing to do with the Egyptians. Joseph would not allow them to be brought into it.
Our culture believes if a sin has been committed, everyone should know about it. Indeed, when a sin is public, it needs to be dealt with in a public way. If a person is unrepentant, there are times when a sin should be told to the whole church (Matt. 18:17). But reconciliation is a gift of grace that is given to people who are directly involved in a particular offense. So if you are seeking reconciliation, be careful not to expand that circle. “Love covers a multitude of sins” (1 Pet. 4:8).
Help others forgive themselves
“And now do not be distressed or angry with yourselves because you sold me here, for God sent me before you to preserve life” (Gen. 45:5). If someone wants to reconcile with you, you may need to help them to be at peace with themselves.
Have you ever said, “I can’t forgive myself”? The root problem is always pride. Here’s how to forgive yourself for the things that bring you guilt and shame. Say, “If the blood of Christ is good enough to satisfy God for this sin of mine, why should it not be good enough for me?”
Which of these are most relevant to you right now? Why?
