Day 19

Genesis 39:1–41:16; Matthew 12:46–13:23; Psalm 17:1-15; Proverbs 3:33-35

WE PICKED UP the story of Joseph today in Genesis. Joseph had been trafficked into slavery by his brothers, who faked his death. His father, Jacob, deeply grieved the loss of his favored son. Meanwhile, Joseph quickly found favor with Potiphar in Egypt. In a short time, Joseph ran Potiphar’s entire household. It could have been a decent life —if not for Potiphar’s wife. Joseph was a young, attractive, and well-built man, and Potiphar’s wife lusted for him. Over and over, she attempted to get him into bed, but he would not betray Potiphar. Eventually, he had to flee the woman, leaving behind his cloak. Scorned, Potiphar’s wife used the cloak as evidence against Joseph, landing him in an Egyptian prison.

Joseph had done nothing wrong, but things went from bad to worse. If anyone had a right to claim injustice and become bitter, it would have been Joseph. But God was with him. In short order, Joseph was in charge of the prison.

Joseph began interpreting dreams while in prison —and he was accurate. He rightly foretold the execution of one of Pharaoh’s officials while predicting the restoration of another. But still, two years passed, and Joseph remained hidden and forgotten. He had plenty of time to give up hope and sink into bitterness and depression —but he didn’t.

When Pharaoh had a dream that his magicians could not interpret, the restored official remembered Joseph. But we’ll have to wait until tomorrow to see what happens next.

As the story continues to unfold, we begin to see that there was more going on than Joseph could have known. The circumstances he was living in were dismal. His freedom had been stolen. He was thrown into prison, despite being faithful and loyal. He was forgotten in a faraway land and thought dead by his father. But somehow, Joseph never lost sight of his faith in God.

PRAYER:

O LORD, hear my plea for justice. . . . You have scrutinized me and found nothing wrong. I am determined not to sin in what I say. I have followed your commands. . . . My steps have stayed on your path; I have not wavered from following you. I am praying to you because I know you will answer, O God. . . . Show me your unfailing love in wonderful ways. By your mighty power you rescue those who seek refuge from their enemies.