Genesis 40

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Joseph is in prison and there is an interesting twist..... two of Pharoah's servants- the chief cupbearer and baker - are thrown in there with him. Both men have dreams and Joseph is able to interpret them. But where does it get him? Nowhere yet. To read the full account see Genesis 40.

What caught my attention in this chapter was Joseph. Three things in particular:
  1. When Joseph saw that the men under his care woke up one morning looking dejected, he approached them and asked “Why are your faces so sad today.” (Genesis 40:7) Joseph's compassion stands out. Even though he is in a place he doesn't want to be in, he is thinking about others.
  2. Not only did Joseph have dreams (Chapter 37:5-9), he is also able to interpret dreams. He links the interpretations directly to God. In 40:8b, Joseph says, “Do not interpretations belong to God? Tell me your dreams.” God works through Joseph in a very tangible way.
  3. Confident in the interpretation God has given him for the cupbearer's dream, Joseph advocates for himself and asks for help to get out of his unjust situation. “But when all goes well with you, remember me and show me kindness; mention me to Pharaoh and get me out of this prison.” (40:14) This is a very proactive step. How painful to hear what happens: the cupbearer forgets him! (40:23) But it isn't the end of the story yet!
I am encouraged by Joseph and I want to follow his good example as he acts compassionately towards others, uses a gift God has given him, and takes opportunities to ask for needed help. They weren't easy things to do. He is dealing with his own difficult situation of being imprisoned when he reaches out to the cupbearer and baker. Offering to interpret dreams is kind of risky as it becomes evident very quickly whether Joseph was right or not. It is humbling to ask others for help and the reality that he cannot control the cupbearer's response leaves Joseph in a state of waiting and wondering.

What about you? How does Joseph's action in the Egyptian prison speak to you? Do any of his actions stand out to you as something you need to do in a specific situation? Why don't you take some time to talk to God about your response to this passage? It could be just what you need. Although things aren't working out yet for Joseph, it is the steps he takes in Chapter 40 that set the stage for an incredible shift in his life.

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