Day 26: Genesis 41-42

It’s been 2 years since Joseph interpreted the cupbearer's and the baker’s dreams. Now, Pharaoh has dreams, and no one can interpret them. God uses this as part of His plan to restore Joseph, who is still in prison. These hard times for Joseph were a time of testing for him.

He sent a man before them—

Joseph—who was sold as a slave.

18 They hurt his feet with fetters,

He was laid in irons.

19 Until the time that his word came to pass,

The word of the Lord tested him.

Psalm 105:17-19

The cupbearer finally remembers Joseph and his ability to interpret dreams. Joseph is summoned, shaves his head bald, changes his clothes, and goes before Pharaoh to interpret his dreams. Joseph makes it clear that it is God who has the ability to interpret the dreams He gives. 

Joseph remained faithful to God and stayed in His presence even during the hard times. Let this be an encouragement to you when you experience trials. Suffering is not the time to pull away from God; it is a time to be steadfast and abide in His presence, knowing that He is with you and He has a plan for you.

Joseph operated in wisdom. His faithfulness to God and righteousness, as well as wisdom, worked in His favor. After 13 years of slavery and imprisonment, things began to turn around for him. He interpreted Pharaoh’s dream and predicted a 7-year famine that would follow 7 years of plenty. Pharaoh acknowledged Joseph’s wisdom and promoted him, placing him in charge of everything except Pharaoh’s throne. He gifts him with a ring, a gold chain, a ride (chariot), fine clothes, power, a great job, and even a wife. 

Joseph went from the pit to the palace in one day! He began to store up grain. Most likely emmer and barley, which were common then. He and his wife had two boys before the famine, and Joseph gave them Hebrew names, Ephraim and Manasseh. Egypt was the only place in the world that had food during the famine, and people traveled there to buy grain to survive.

It pays to be led by God in all of our decision-making. He will help us to prepare for what’s to come and avoid certain troubles. He will even place us in positions to be able to help and serve others who are in need. Again, this comes from living in the LORD’s presence and abiding in Him- constant fellowship with Him.

The famine was also impacting Canaan. We will see that even though Jacob lives in a place where the famine is, God still takes care of him and his family. Incredible! Circumstances that are common to the rest of the world don’t have to negatively impact those who seek God’s face.

Joseph’s brothers travel from Canaan to Egypt, a few weeks’ journey on foot (250-300 miles) to buy grain. They bow before Joseph. This is when Joseph recognizes them and remembers his own dreams from 20 years prior. They don’t recognize Joseph, though. He uses an interpreter to speak with them even though He knows Hebrew. 

He accuses them of being spies to test them and get more information from them. God uses this to bring the brothers to repentance. In prison, they lament and feel guilty about what they did to Joseph decades earlier.

Joseph keeps Simeon in custody and sends the others back with grain, the money they bought the grain with, and tells them to bring Benjamin when they return. They panic when they are lodging and find their money in their sacks. Now, they really look like guilty spies! 

They go back and tell their dad, Jacob, everything that happened. But Jacob refuses to send Benjamin because he doesn’t want anything to happen to the only son of Rachel that he has left. He says Joseph is gone and Simeon is gone; if something happened to Benjamin, he would die in sorrow.

This is a grace-filled space—come as you are. If you’d like, comment below to share what stood out to you; your words may bless another sister. You can also connect with us in our GroupMe Bible Study chat (link in your email).

Resources Used:

ESV Single Column Journaling Bible (Original, Black): Holy Bible, English Standard Version

The Tony Evans Bible Commentary: Advancing God's Kingdom Agenda

The Bible Recap: A One-Year Guide to Reading and Understanding the Entire Bible

Bible Hub: https://biblehub.com/

Crayola Silly Scents Twistables Colored Pencils, 12 count

BIC Xtra Strong Mechanical Pencils with Erasers, Thick Point (0.9mm), 24-Count

Mr. Pen- Sticky Index Tabs, 480 Pcs, Colorful Sticky Tabs for Notebooks

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Note: I'm sharing my personal study notes, which means they may contain doctrinal or technical errors. Extend grace as we learn together, and be sure to study the Word for yourself.

By: LaRissa J

toddlermomdiaries.com