From Genesis 41-42
Overview
Gen 41.1-36; Story; God interprets Pharaoh's dreams
through Joseph
Gen 41.37-57; Story; Joseph rises to power and
provides for people in famine
Gen 42.1-38; Story Joseph’s brothers travel to
Egypt to purchase grain
Passage and comments
From prisoner to ruler. The gift and calling God
had bestowed on Joseph paid off. After Joseph interpreted Pharaoh's dream we
read;
[37] This proposal pleased Pharaoh and all his servants. [38] And Pharaoh said to his servants, “Can we find a man like this, in whom is the Spirit of God?” [39] Then Pharaoh said to Joseph, “Since God has shown you all this, there is none so discerning and wise as you are. [40] You shall be over my house, and all my people shall order themselves as you command. Only as regards the throne will I be greater than you.” [41] And Pharaoh said to Joseph, “See, I have set you over all the land of Egypt.” [42] Then Pharaoh took his signet ring from his hand and put it on Joseph's hand, and clothed him in garments of fine linen and put a gold chain about his neck. [43] And he made him ride in his second chariot. And they called out before him, “Bow the knee!” Thus he set him over all the land of Egypt. [44] Moreover, Pharaoh said to Joseph, “I am Pharaoh, and without your consent no one shall lift up hand or foot in all the land of Egypt.” (Gen 41:37-44)
But is this the end goal of Joseph being able to
interpret dreams? We would like to think that our prayers to God for the things
we desire would meet similar answers, but something bigger was looming up in
the background.
[57] Moreover, all the earth came to Egypt to Joseph to buy grain, because the famine was severe over all the earth. (Gen 41:57)
Joseph was given the ability to interpret dreams
from God and he was to use them for the well being of others. How many of our
prayers today reflect a desire to be a blessing for others? When Joseph sees
his brothers coming for grain we read;
[9] And Joseph remembered the dreams that he had dreamed of them.” (Gen 42:9)
Joseph's dreams were coming true. So what is he
going to do with them?
Story of Jesus
Jesus and his work on the cross is spoken of as a
gift (Rom 5). What people do with this gift says a lot about who we are and how
much we respect the person and work of Jesus. For those who do not know Jesus,
please read some of the gospels Matthew, Mark, Luke and John. Learn about God's
gift Jesus. For those who have received Jesus, we've been given a trust. To
take and use that gift for the well being and salvation of others.