Looking Past Offense and Betrayal

The View From Above: Thoughts to Help With Everyday Life

June 11, 2026

Pastor Paul Stephens

Looking Past Offense and Betrayal

All of us have to learn to look past offense and betrayal.

This is the very powerful lesson illustrated by Joseph in the Book of Genesis.

His brothers betrayed him in the worst possible way. They hated him because he was the favorite of their father and sold him into slavery. He ended up in Egypt as the servant of Potiphar and then spent years in prison after being falsely accused.

All of this happened through no fault of his own. It was the sin and betrayal of others that put him in that position.

Through it all, he kept his heart right with God.

No bitterness. No anger. No resentment.

He served God in Potiphar’s house and in prison.

Years later, reconciliation with his brothers finally occurred. After decades had passed since the original offense, Joseph revealed what had sustained him through it all.

Scripture Focus

Genesis 50:20

“You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done…”

This verse perfectly illustrates looking past the bitterness of a situation and seeing God’s redemptive plan.

Though you may be hurt and wounded by the offense of others, God’s will for your life is still intact. Never forget that.

God knows everything that goes on in our lives, and He is fully aware of every offense that we endure.

The challenge is to keep your heart and attitudes right with God.

Always reflect His virtue no matter what occurs.

That is one of the great tests of life, and perhaps that is an area you need to examine today.

Forgive those who have offended or betrayed you. Let it all go. Replace bitterness with love and forgiveness.

Jesus set the ultimate example when, from the cross, in the height of pain and agony, while suffering the most, He said:

“Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.”

There you have it—the example for all of us to follow in the face of every offense.

Today’s Challenge

Examine your heart today.

Is there someone you need to forgive? Is there an offense or betrayal you have been holding onto?

Choose to release it to God. Trust His redemptive plan, keep your heart right before Him, and replace bitterness with love and forgiveness.