Genesis 40:1-8
Verse 8 “We both had dreams,” they answered, “but there is no one to interpret them.” Then Joseph said to them, “Do not interpretations belong to God? Tell me your dreams.”
Even though Joseph was living fully for the Lord, life took a sharp turn because of his obedience. He was honoring God and Potiphar by fleeing Mrs. Potiphar’s advances but by running out so fast that he lost his cloak, gave her something she could use against him. No, her claims weren’t true but since she held circumstantial evidence her husband believed her and threw his right hand man in prison.
Being thrown in prison would not have fit Joseph’s idea of a blessing but in God’s plan book, things which look like a setback can often be a strategic move which may make sense later. As part of God’s plan, Joseph was put in charge of a section of the other prisoners. One morning he noticed some unsettled prisoners and found out they had had some dreams which they didn’t understand.
Dreams were a big deal in that culture and there were people who were viewed as special interpreters of dreams. Joseph didn’t let the fact that he was a foreigner in the country keep him from speaking the truth about God. He knew their pagan beliefs but wanted them to know truth. His pointing out that only God could tell them what their dreams meant was putting himself in a place where he could have faced more punishment.
Joseph could have told them about their dreams and never mentioned he got the information from God and no one would have been the wiser. In fact, if he had done that, he may have placed himself in a position where he would have been removed from the prison and given a new position in the palace. But Joseph wasn’t going to tell these men the truth of their dreams solely for his own gain. While it could make a way out for him, his desire was to make God known.
There are moments in our lives which seem hard and while we may be there to learn something, we may be there for an opportunity to make Christ known. It may not be in a grand fashion but even the small moments in life can be a time where we can speak about His power and guidance, thereby making Him known to those around us. We need to be aware and ready when these moments come up.
Making It Personal
When have you been in a position to speak up with the truth of Christ? Did you take the opportunity? What do you need to do to be prepared for the moment?
Making It Personal Kids
Have you ever had an opportunity to talk about Jesus to people who don’t know Him? Did you talk to them about Him? How can you be ready for a moment like that?
Closing Prayer
Father, thank You for giving us opportunities to tell others about You. Help us to know what to say and have the courage to say it. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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