Favouritism

Genesis 37:3-4 AMPC

Now Israel loved Joseph more than all his children because he was the son of his old age, and he made him a [distinctive] long tunic with sleeves. [4] But when his brothers saw that their father loved [Joseph] more than all of his brothers, they hated him and could not say, Peace [in friendly greeting] to him or speak peaceably to him.

Favouritism in relationships causes much psychological damage both to the one who is favoured and the ones who are in the background.

The story of Joseph and his brothers starkly illustrates this.

It made Joseph into a tell-tale, slightly arrogant lad and formed jealousy and hatred in his brothers hearts.

It can be the same at school or at work where the teacher or the boss shows unfair favouritism.

Of course we each are responsible for our reactions to such situations.

Yet trace how hard circumstances and the pass of time turned things around in each of the brothers.

Joseph, no doubt was humbled by his time as a slave and prisoner - able to forgive and let God fulfill his dreams.

Judah, the instigator for selling Joseph in the first place, offers himself to save Benjamin.

The only one who seems unchanged is Jacob. He seems to care little that Simeon is being held captive in Egypt, his only concern is that he keeps Benjamin.

After all the years of mourning Joseph, he hadn't seen the hurt, resentment and jealousy he had caused. He is still showing favouritism!

Hmmm.. something to ponder in our own relationships.