Passage
Genesis 41:37-57 (ESV)
God Accepts Those Who Fear Him
Acts 10:17-35
Key Verse: 10:34
Joseph in Charge of Egypt
Date: Jul. 8, 2015
Daily Bread
Key Verse: 41:37b
First, Joseph elevated from prison to palace (37-49). Pharaoh recognized Joseph's connection to God, made him the national economic advisor, and honored him with a robe, a gold chain, a chariot and a wife. Joseph's fate turned around radically in one day. He could've sought revenge upon his enemies or partied in the palace. But he did not. He did his job well, again, collecting grain during the bumper crop years. As a slave, as a prisoner, and now as a prime minister, Joseph was faithful to God and a responsible, wise worker.
Second, Joseph's two sons (50-57). Joseph married at age 30 and had two sons: Manasseh, since God made him "forget" his troubles, and Ephraim, since God made him "twice fruitful" in this land of suffering. God's blessings did not make Joseph proud, but thankful, humble and obedient to God. Joseph had become a wonderful, mature person by God's blessing and presence. Suffering need not create bitterness; it can create perseverance, character and hope (Ro 5:3).
Prayer: Lord, help me be responsible and wise where you have placed me and with what you have given me. I pray to be a humble, diligent and thankful servant.
One Word: One in whom is the Spirit of God
