Meant for GoodSample

From the Pit to the Palace

Read: Genesis 41:1-36

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Pharaoh awakes from two dreams. The first includes seven healthy, fat cows who are consumed by seven unhealthy, gaunt cows. The second dream includes seven healthy, plump heads of grain that are devoured by seven unhealthy, blighted heads of grain. Deeply troubled, Pharaoh finds even his best wise men and magicians are unable to interpret the dreams. The chief butler remembers his fault and tells Pharaoh of Joseph’s ability to interpret dreams. Pharaoh calls Joseph from the prison, shaves his head, and clothes him in new garments. Then, Joseph successfully interprets Pharaoh’s dreams.

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As Pharaoh awakens suddenly following his two very troubling dreams, Joseph is “brought quickly out of the dungeon” (Genesis 39:14) to be presented before Pharaoh. The chief butler’s remembrance of Joseph sets a high-stakes meeting that could mean Joseph’s freedom from his unjust imprisonment. Immediately, Pharaoh inquires of Joseph, “I have heard it said of you that you can understand a dream, to interpret it” (Genesis 41:15). Stunningly, Joseph responds negatively, “It is not in me,” and in the same breath draws Pharaoh’s gaze to another: “God will give Pharaoh an answer of peace” (Genesis 41:16).

Joseph’s declaration is a stunning moment of courage. Pharaoh knows Joseph is a Hebrew and does not worship the Egyptian gods. When Joseph declares, “God will give Pharaoh an answer of peace,” he is also effectively saying, “The Egyptian gods cannot give you an answer of peace.” Joseph’s first words before the most powerful man on earth are not meant to court favor, but to declare allegiance. Likewise, before giving his interpretation of the dreams, Joseph declares, “God has shown Pharaoh what He is about to do” (Genesis 41:25). Not only is God the one who interprets dreams, but He is the very one who sends the dreams and will ultimately accomplish what is revealed by them.

By serving God, Joseph is released from the pressure of having to appease or manipulate Pharaoh. Even as a prisoner hoping for release, Joseph’s allegiance to God makes him the freest man in the room.

Apply

Joseph’s story is not stunning because of his dramatic rise from the pit to the palace, but because his faithfulness is never contingent on his circumstances. Friends, this is freedom. Think about it – what could you do to Joseph? No punishment could sway his convictions; there is no promise of release that could convince him to renounce his God. Whether he is thrown in the pit or promoted in the palace, Joseph’s faithfulness never wavers. What keeps you from trusting God like Joseph? Take some time to think through the obstacles that may be inhibiting your full dependence upon God and obedience to His commands. Then, ask the Lord to free you from those things!