Genesis 41 - Reputation

Joseph was once again mistreated. The cupbearer who got his job back conveniently forgot to bring Joseph's case before Pharaoh. When Pharaoh has dreams two years later, the cupbearer (probably because it had the potential to improve his standing before Pharaoh) remembers Joseph's ability to interpret dreams.

Sending for Joseph based on his reputation, Pharaoh eagerly awaits the interpretation of his dreams. Joseph did not take credit for this ability but said that only God could interpret dreams. Joseph gave credit to God and counseled Pharaoh that the matter was urgent because the dream was given in two forms.

If Joseph had stopped there he still would have been a hero, but Joseph continues to give his captors advice beneficial to weathering the financial storm that was about to befall Egypt. He recommends appointment of a wise man to be in charge of Egypt to store up grain to feed the country in lean years. (The first mention of an emergency fund).

Pharaoh, realizes that Joseph is speaking truth only God can give and from God has great wisdom from above, so he appoints Joseph and gives him authority only surpassed by Pharaoh himself. From imprisonment to Vice President in a day!
Only God could so raise a person.

Joseph now would apply the financial principles he received from God to sustain that nation through lean times. Just one more principle to apply- Joseph didn't offer the people handouts during the lean times. He sold the grain to the people and retained the benefit to the country.

Where ever you have been placed, you have an opportunity to point others to God a d let them know whatever our distress, there is a God in Heaven who cares for his people. Do you have that reputation?

When people recognize good character in you, do you place the credit with God who gave you your skills and talents? Do you look to him to answer the questions that are beyond our abilities?

I believe that the lean years our nation has encountered are nothing compared to what will come in the future. Are you preparing for a future need? Are you preparing enough to help others as well when that time comes?

When our story is written, will we have a reputation like Joseph or like the cupbearer? Joseph applied himself to benefit others while the cupbearer took benefits for himself.

God may be looking for the next Joseph to lead with his wisdom in times of famine and hardship. Can we depend on him alone for our advancement and look to him for the wisdom to sustain the domain he has given us to serve?

May God richly bless you as you seek him and as you serve him.