Question: Isn't it possible that we are seeing Joseph go through the normal process of forgiveness, including anger, crying, harshness, toying with, scaring them, putting them in prison, and then eventually reconciling with them?
Answer: Yes! These are classic behaviors, the turmoil of forgiveness and reconciliation. The remarkable aspect of this is Joseph's reluctance to exercise his absolute power over his brothers; he manipulates them but does not take vengeance. Many would have failed the test that Joseph faced here; he passed the test, restrained his power, because of his own insights into justice and mercy.
Question: God is sovereign, just and loving. There are many horrific things that happen here on earth, how come we are quick to blame God and not take ownership ourselves?
Answer: Since the Garden, when Adam blamed Eve and Cain blamed Abel, we humans have shown a strong preference for blame-shifting. It's what we do! That's not what we were made for. Look at Jesus, who not only didn't blame-shift, but took the blame for all our brokenness and violence!
Question: A lot of times we have very subtle idols just like in Egypt where people worshiped Pharaoh; what are some things besides prayer we can do to keep God the centre of our lives?
Answer: As social animals, we need one another's help for that. That might come in an accountability partnership, a small group, etc.
I am greatly helped also by appropriate reading.
Tim Keller's latest book, Counterfeit Gods, is on this topic; I have not read it yet, but have heard his messages on the topic. I'll recommend it on this topic, based on what I've heard from Tim already.
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