Thursday, September 23, 2010

WHEN THINGS DO NOT GO AS PLANNED Pt 4 - Keep Dreaming

Genesis 40 is the chapter in Joseph's story where he interprets the cup-bearer's dream and the baker's dream. The cup-bearer's dream has a happy ending and the baker's dream ends in his death. Joseph's interpretation of these dreams comes true just like he said because God is with him (see previous blog presence vs. power).


NOTE: GOD'S PURPOSES INCLUDE POSITIONING THE RIGHT PEOPLE AROUND US.

Take special note of Joseph's confidence in the following verses. Note his powerful confidence in his statement to the cup-bearer. In my estimation this confidence must come from the fact that his dreams and visions are still alive in him despite what the circumstances are that surround him.

Genesis 40
14 And please remember me and do me a favor when things go well for you. Mention me to Pharaoh, so he might let me out of this place.15 For I was kidnapped from my homeland, the land of the Hebrews, and now I'm here in prison, but I did nothing to deserve it."

Why was Joseph not bitter or angry? He had every human right to have this reaction because he was thrown away by his brothers and falsely accused by Potiphar's wife. Basically he was in prison on false charges. 

He expected God's purposes and promises to prevail. 

This is where his boldness came from to ask the cup-bearer to remember him when he was restored. Remember nothing had happened yet. I would imagine that the cup-bearer looked at Joseph like, "DUDE WHAT HAVE YOU BEEN SMOKING?" Without a doubt Joseph was full of faith and confidence in the God of the dream and not just his dream. There is a difference!!

The cup-bearer gets restored but forgets Joseph. How many times do we feel lost and forgotten?

 Genesis 40
23 Pharaoh's chief cup-bearer, however, forgot all about Joseph, never giving him another thought.


Man may not remember but God never forgets!!! 

Keep looking up for your answers. Man does not have them but He does. 

I hope that these posts are blessing you. Let me know if they are. Part 5 (again faithfulness produces the favor of God) coming soon . . .


Ed

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