And now, do not be distressed or angry with yourselves that you sold me into this place, because it was to save lives that God sent me before you.
Judah and his brethren were waiting for an answer, and could not but be amazed to discover, instead of the gravity of a judge, the natural affection of a father or brother. I. Joseph ordered all his attendants to withdraw, Gen 45:1. The private conversations of friends are the most free.
Commenting on Genesis 45:1-15
Now therefore be not grieved,.... To an excess, so as to be swallowed up with overmuch sorrow; otherwise it became them to be grieved for their sin, and to show a godly sorrow and true repentance for it: nor angry with yourselves, that ye sold me hither; reflect upon themselves, and afflict themselves in an immoderate way; or break forth into anger and wrath with...
Now therefore be not grieved, nor angry with yourselves, that ye sold me hither: for God did send me before you to preserve life. (b) This example teaches that we must by all means comfort those who are truly ashamed and sorry for their sins.