Genesis 41:37-41 – Ultimately it’s God who determines our future

What’s really outstanding about Joseph was the truth the he served a great God. He was thoroughly God-centred. He was certain his God would never let him down. He held on tenaciously despite the multiple disappointments he had to endure. The long 13 years had him honed, and his administrative gift was so evident. Just hearing his proposal on how to see the nation through was impressive. Notice how his constant reference to God had rubbed on to Pharaoh. So he said to Joseph “Can we find a man like this, in whom is a divine spirit?”  Joseph did not know that when he was proposing the plan to Pharaoh, he was in effect recommending himself. Even Pharaoh recognised it. So he said, “Since God has informed you of all this, there is no one so discerning and wise as you are.” Unwittingly the king was acknowledging Elohim, the God Joseph and his forefathers served. This man of the moment, though a slave, had been developed for such a moment. He was simply unparalleled. Whether we are cognizant of it or not, God desires to see the Joseph spirit rise in each of us. We may think we do not have the capability, but with God no one is not usable. It’s not our talent He is looking for, it’s our willingness, commitment and faithfulness. 

One moment Joseph was an imprisoned slave, and the next he was the man second only to the king. Pharaoh had personally made him his viceroy. The exact words of Pharaoh were, “You shall be over my house, and according to your command all my people shall do homage; only in the throne I will be greater than you.” “See, I have set you over all the land of Egypt.” Joseph was sure his God-given plan would save Egypt. But he was not aware that God had in mind that through his plan, he would be reconciled to his father and brothers. All he knew was that a famine was looming. 

Obviously, Joseph was a person who knew how to appraise himself. The high office he had attained did not get to him. He knew he was there by the generous grace of God. So his feet were firmly planted on the ground. Without a doubt, he knew where he stood. He would not be where he was if not for God. What he had and potentially could have were determined by God, not Pharaoh. Like him, let us not forget the One who holds the future. All our tomorrows are firmly in His hand.   

Meanwhile Joseph had not given up on his own dreams. His confidence that it would come to pass was still in place. With the fulfillment of his interpretation of the cupbearer’s dream, his confidence would surely be further enhanced. But it was only realized in God’s time.  What kept him so focused was his perception of God. Like him, our capacity to live a full and rich life, and have an effective ministry, is largely dependent on our perception of God. Bear in mind that our success in ministry is not determined by what we know but who we know. For when we know Him, we shall do great exploits with Him. Praise the Lord!