Explore the Bible
By Jay T. Robertson, Ph.D. Assistant Professor of Christian Studies, University of Mobile
OPPORTUNITY KNOCKS
Genesis 41:15–21, 33–40
A Problem (15–21)
Egyptian Pharaohs were thought to live on the edge of the divine realms. Their dreams were considered to be significant. One night Pharaoh had two disturbing dreams. He had no clue what they meant nor could any of the Egyptian magicians explain the dreams to Pharaoh.
The cupbearer remembered Joseph. He told Pharaoh how Joseph had interpreted both his and the baker’s dreams. Pharaoh summoned Joseph from the prison and shared his dreams with him. Pharaoh told Joseph no one had been able to interpret his dreams. Joseph humbly explained he could not interpret the dreams either but God could. The Lord revealed to Joseph the meaning of the dreams.
In the dreams God was revealing to Pharaoh what He was about to do in the next 14 years. Egypt would first experience seven years of abundance in grain harvests and then seven years of devastating famine.
Joseph remained faithful to God and God never abandoned Joseph. God had him in the right place at the right time to do the right thing. Whatever problem you’re facing, remember God is sovereign and at work in your life.
A Plan (33–36)
God also revealed to Joseph a plan. First, Pharaoh should select a discerning and wise man who could prepare Egypt for the famine that would come. Second, Pharaoh should appoint overseers over the land who would make sure the details of the plan were carried out. Third, the overseers should collect one-fifth of the produce during the seven years of abundance and store it up in select cities across the land.
The 20 percent times seven years saving plan was brilliant. The decentralization of the stored grain would allow for easier distribution. Joseph’s plan called for dynamic action. This dynamic call to action was based on Joseph’s knowledge of what God was about to do. The knowledge of what God is going to do does not lead to passive resignation but aggressive action. The knowledge of God’s plan is not the end of human planning and action but the basis for it.
God is truly sovereign but we are truly responsible to act in a way that glorifies God.
Joseph stood before Pharaoh for such a time as this. God places His people where He wants them to represent His interests. Be aware of God’s presence in your life, God’s purpose for your life and God’s power at work through your life. What does God desire to do through you where He has strategically placed you? Look for these open doors of opportunity and stand up for the Lord.
A Place (37–40)
Joseph’s proposal pleased Pharaoh and his servants. His action plan called for sound leadership and the gift of administration. But he never dreamed he was commending himself.
What happened next must have shocked everyone, including Joseph. Pharaoh put Joseph in charge of implementing the plan. Pharaoh understood that only Joseph’s God could have devised such a plan to save the nation. He believed that Joseph, in whom was the Spirit of God, was the wisest man in Egypt.
God had prepared Joseph for his new position. God used each trial Joseph had endured to equip him to serve. Believer, God is with you and He is preparing you to exalt Christ through your life.
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