Read Genesis 40
Highlights:
Joseph's dramatic rise to second ruler of Egypt. His brothers, willingly bow down to him, fulfilling the vision. What will Joseph do to those who betrayed him?
And there was there with us a young man, an Hebrew, servant to the captain of the guard; and we told him, and he interpreted to us our dreams; to each man according to his dream he did interpret (Gen. 41:12).
From foreign slave to service as the Egyptian king's prime minister is the story of Joseph's life. There were many years of cruel suffering before he became the savior of his people. It appears that he suffered three betrayals. First, the hatred and jealousy of his brothers; next, the perverted passions of Potiphar's wife; and also, the ingratitude of the chief butler. But regardless of his many adverse circumstances and disappointments, Joseph, confidently told Pharaoh that God ruled over the affairs of earth. Although from all outward appearances, the events which took place in Joseph's life would seem to contradict that fact. Two years earlier, two of Pharaoh's officers were in prison and depressed over their dreams (41:11). Even in that situation, Joseph pointed out how God ruled by asking: Do not interpretations belong to God? (40:8). When he was telling them about his own circumstances, he did not blame his brothers for his situation. He simply stated: I was stolen away out of the land of the Hebrews (40:15). In every crisis, Joseph acknowledged that God was with him.
God is in control of the affairs of our lives. However, even when we remain faithful to Him, it may appear that God either does not care about us or will not do anything about our circumstances. The life of Joseph points out that the enemies of God cannot defeat the person whose supreme desire is to be obedient to Him, regardless of adverse situations. God has amazing ways of developing our talents, maturing us spiritually, and honoring all who remain faithful to Him. Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love Him (James 1:12).
There are no shortcuts to spiritual maturity or to preparation for being used by the Lord. The discipline of hardship is necessary to develop spiritual strength, but it is never one hour longer than needed to develop His plan for our lives.
This is thankworthy, if a man for conscience toward God endure grief, suffering wrongfully. For what glory is it, if, when ye be buffeted for your faults, ye shall take it patiently? but if, when ye do well, and suffer for it, ye take it patiently, this is acceptable with God. For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow His steps (1 Peter 2:19-21).
Thought for Today:
God always has a higher purpose for our lives that he is developing.
Christ Revealed:
By the wisdom of Joseph (Gen. 41:39). Christ; In whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge (Col. 2:2-3).
Word Studies:
40:3 in ward, in custody; 41:2 kine, cows; 41:56 waxed sore, became severe; 42:7 strange, as a stranger; 42:9 nakedness of the land, weak points of our defense; 42:27 espied, saw; 42:34 traffick, do business; 42:38 mischief, harm.
Prayer Suggestion: Seek the Lord's teaching; grow and mature in your prayer life (Luke 11:1).
Optional Reading: Matthew 14
Memory Verse for the Week: Psalms 100:3