God Meant it for Good – The Life of Joseph (Part 6)
Genesis 37-50
Joseph (c. 1562 – 1452 BCE)
Protected in Prison
In part 5, we recognized Joseph’s perseverance and unwavering faithfulness to God. Despite facing unwarranted circumstances in prison, Joseph did not succumb to bitterness or anger, nor did he attribute blame or curse God. He chose instead to pray during adversity and maintained a close relationship with God Almighty. Due to his demonstrated integrity, the warden appointed Joseph as overseer of all the prisoners. Joseph’s reliability was such that the warden had no need to supervise him or his work, as he represented a God that was as tangible as the man in front of him.
God provides numerous opportunities throughout life. Even in the most challenging situations, there exist possibilities for growth and transformation. It is incumbent upon us to reach out, relinquish control, and trust God as “the author and finisher of our faith,” allowing Him to operate through us. One should not allow external circumstances to dictate our behavior, judge our situation, influence our moods, or control our attitudes. We should also not expect the world to provide salvation in times of distress. The world and other individuals cannot serve as reliable safety nets; reliance on humanity in crises is misguided. While the world is transient—people are born and die—God remains a constant, unchanging presence in both heaven and on earth.
Hebrews 12:2 (NKJV) – looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.
John 16:33 (NIV) – “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”
I John 2:17 (NIV) – The world and its desires pass away, but whoever does the will of God lives forever.
Dreams of Despair
While the butler was restored to his position following his release from prison, Joseph remained in his role as overseer for an additional two years before being chosen by God for a new opportunity.
During this interval, the Pharaoh of Egypt experienced a troubling dream. In his vision, he observed seven healthy cows emerging from the Nile River to graze in the fields. Following these seven robust cows were seven additional cows that appeared frail and undernourished. Remarkably, the thin cows approached the healthy ones and proceeded to consume them. Disturbed by this unsettling vision, Pharaoh awakened, troubled and unable to comprehend the significance of the dream, which continued to haunt him. His spirit was troubled, and he felt an overwhelming sense of despair.
This scenario illustrates that divine intervention was at work, as preparations were being made in Pharaoh’s mind to facilitate the release of Joseph. Despite Pharaoh’s status as an unbeliever and idolator, it is evident that God often utilizes individuals from various walks of life to impact His followers. God’s sovereignty extends over all, including those who do not believe, as He is the Creator of all humanity. There exists no distinction in creation between believers and non-believers; however, there is a profound separation in the afterlife, where believers attain heaven and non-believers face condemnation.
The biblical account continues with Pharaoh experiencing a second dream, in which he observed seven heads of healthy grain flourishing on a single stalk. Subsequently, he saw seven additional heads of grain that were thin, parched, and scorched. The desiccated stalks then consumed the seven healthy ones. This further disturbed Pharaoh, prompting him to awaken once more, feeling anxious and apprehensive. In response to his unease, Pharaoh summoned the magicians and wise men of Egypt to his palace, where he recounted his dreams. Despite their various abilities, spells, and practices, none could elucidate the meaning behind Pharaoh’s dreams. The inability of these purportedly knowledgeable individuals to provide an interpretation underscores the fact that their powers and wisdom derive from sources outside of divine truth (II Corinthians 11:14). It is imperative to recognize that satanic forces are inferior to God, who is omniscient and omnipresent. Satan only operates within the parameters allowed by God. God remains the all-powerful, all-knowing Creator, as evidenced in Job 1:6-7.
Following a period of exhaustion among Pharaoh’s advisors, who were unable to decipher his troubling dreams, Pharaoh experienced a profound sense of frustration and hopelessness. He recognized that these dreams were a source of distress and foreboding. In this moment of desperation, the butler recalled Joseph, a young Hebrew who had previously interpreted dreams while overseeing the prison. It had been two years since the butler’s release, and he had forgotten to mention Joseph before this juncture. The butler approached Pharaoh, acknowledging his oversight. Given Pharaoh’s current state of urgency, he was receptive to the butler’s account. He explained that both he and the baker had experienced unsettling dreams on the same night, and Joseph had accurately interpreted those dreams the following day, with the outcomes materializing within three days.
Prison to Palace
Convinced of the validity of the butler’s claims and guided by divine influence, Pharaoh summoned Joseph from prison to the palace. Upon Joseph’s arrival, Pharaoh articulated, “I had a dream, and no one can interpret it. But I have heard it said of you that when you hear a dream you can interpret it” (Genesis 41:15 NIV). This statement revealed two important points. First, Pharaoh’s admission that no one could interpret his dreams highlighted his dissatisfaction with his magicians, wise men, and sorcerers. They were unable to provide a solution. Second, Pharaoh’s reference to hearsay regarding Joseph’s abilities possibly served as a means to shift responsibility onto the butler, should Joseph fail to provide an interpretation. This would spare Pharaoh from appearing foolish for seeking Joseph’s assistance in prison.
After Pharaoh explained his dreams to Joseph, his response was characterized by humility and respect, as he declared, “I cannot do it, but God will give Pharaoh the answer he desires” (Genesis 41:16). This attitude reflected Joseph’s growth from his past experiences as a youth when he had boasted to his family about his dreams. Although those dreams may have been prescient, his earlier arrogance had not engendered favorable relations with his family. By this stage, Joseph had learned to attribute all credit to God, a principle that is crucial when utilizing one’s gifts for divine purposes.
Intelligent Interpretation
Joseph explained to Pharaoh that the seven healthy cows and seven robust stalks of grain represented seven years of prosperity for Egypt. The seven lean cows and seven scorched stalks of grain signified seven years of devastating famine (Genesis 41:25-32). Furthermore, Joseph provided pragmatic advice on how to prepare for the impending famine. He recommended that Pharaoh appoint trustworthy individuals during the years of abundance to collect one-fifth of the grain and store it under Pharaoh’s authority, as it would be vital during the forthcoming crisis.
In this narrative, Joseph not only offered an explanation but also proposed a viable solution, thereby reinforcing that the ultimate source of wisdom resides with God rather than man. The text also illustrates remarkable clarity and directness with which God reveals His promises, even to non-believers. It is evident that God can utilize anyone who is willing to seek Him. In the case of Pharaoh, he lacked substantial acumen in divine nature; God intentionally used a troubling dream to create distress and confusion. This raises the question: Why would God choose to do this? The purpose was to elevate Joseph and to prevent famine-related suffering in Egypt and the surrounding areas.
Inquiring Idolaters
It is pertinent to inquire why God would assist the unbelieving idolaters of Egypt. The reality is that He was not endorsing the Egyptians; rather, He abhors idolatry. As a jealous God, He does not permit anything or anyone to take precedence over Him. Read the verses below for confirmation.
Exodus 34:14 (KJV) – For thou shalt worship no other god: for the LORD, whose name is Jealous, is a jealous God.
Psalm 106:36 (NKJV) – They served their idols, which became a snare to them.
In actuality, God was providing assistance to the Hebrew people, His chosen ones. Joseph, being a Hebrew, was selected by God to fulfill His purpose of preserving the Hebrew population. This situation also served as a significant affirmation of divine sovereignty. The ensuing famine granted God an opportunity to receive rightful glory, honor, and praise. The Egyptians were merely beneficiaries of God’s compassion, mercy, and love extended towards the Hebrews through Joseph’s actions. Additionally, others throughout the nation reaped benefits from this circumstance.
Following Joseph’s comprehensive interpretation, Pharaoh recognized the spirit of God within him. The below Bible verses confirm Pharaoh’s acknowledgment of Joseph’s God:
Genesis 41:38 (NIV) – So Pharaoh asked them, “Can we find anyone like this man, one in whom is the spirit of God?”
The inherent presence of God’s Holy Spirit is something that individuals can often sense intuitively. This understanding is why many people exercise greater care in their language and behavior in the presence of sincere believers. People often adjust their conduct in front of genuine Christians, as the demeanor and actions of believers reveal their alignment with God’s will. The adage, “Mind your manners because you may be the only Bible people read,” underscores this concept.
Prisoner to Prince
Pharaoh felt compelled to honor Joseph by appointing him as governor over all of Egypt. This decision was formalized when Pharaoh placed his signet ring on Joseph’s finger, dressed him in Egyptian attire, and adorned him with a gold chain (Genesis 41:42b). Joseph transitioned from a prisoner to a prince, attaining the position of second-in-command throughout all of Egypt.
The fulfillment of Joseph’s interpretation of Pharaoh’s dream occurred rapidly. There were seven years of agricultural abundance, during which grain was sufficiently stored. Subsequently, God permitted seven years of famine to unfold. Due to careful grain conservation, and God’s love through Joseph, the populations of Egypt and the surrounding regions were spared from starvation.
It is now opportune to reflect on the insights derived from this narrative. Below are several questions to contemplate during challenging and confusing periods:
Are you steadfast and faithful to God, even amid adversity?
Can you identify opportunities presented by God in unfavorable situations?
Have you recognized the spiritual gifts bestowed upon you by God? It is possible that you possess multiple gifts.
Are you capable of extending compassion and assistance to others, even when you are experiencing your own struggles?
Do you grasp the magnitude of God and His capabilities? Do you place trust in Him? Most importantly, do you have a personal relationship with Him? (It is significant to remember that He knows you intimately, for He created you with love).
Thank you for engaging with this exploration of Joseph’s life. I sincerely hope that you are abundantly blessed by the Lord and that your joy remains fulfilled in Him. His love for you is profound!
John 15:11 (NKJV) – These things I have spoken to you, that My joy may remain in you, and that your joy may be full.
I invite you to participate in the conclusion, part 7, which explores the impending drought affecting Egypt and Joseph’s homeland. In this narrative, Joseph’s family will require assistance and seek refuge in Egypt, prompting them to rely on Joseph for help. Will he extend forgiveness to his brothers? Will his father, Jacob, still be living? Will his family be able to recognize him?
In His love,
Annah
Photo source: Charles Thévenin, 1789
QuotesCosmos
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