Favor Not Power

Read This Week: Genesis 41

So Pharaoh said to Joseph, “I hereby put you in charge of the whole land of Egypt.” Then Pharaoh took his signet ring from his finger and put it on Joseph’s finger. He dressed him in robes of fine linen and put a gold chain around his neck. He had him ride in a chariot as his second-in-command, and people shouted before him, “Make way!” Thus he put him in charge of the whole land of Egypt. – Genesis 41:41-43 NIV

To this point, we continue to learn that Joseph’s life was marked by adversity, from being sold into slavery by his brothers to enduring false accusations and imprisonment. Yet, he consistently demonstrates remarkable resilience in the face of these challenges. Instead of succumbing to bitterness or despair, Joseph remains steadfast in his faith and maintains his integrity. His resilience is a powerful reminder to us that adversity can catalyze growth and eventual success.

At the outset of Genesis 41, we find Joseph languishing in an Egyptian prison, seemingly forgotten and forsaken. However, Father God is at work, as Pharaoh himself experiences troubling dreams that none of his wise men can interpret. It is precisely at this juncture that Joseph’s path intersects with God’s sovereign will for his life. This interplay within the story reinforces the truth that even in the darkest times, the Lord’s spirit is at work, orchestrating events for a higher purpose for those who believe.

Coincidentally, Joseph’s ability to interpret dreams accurately proves instrumental in his ascent to power. This passage begins with Pharaoh elevating Joseph to a position of authority, second only to Pharaoh himself. Joseph’s ability to interpret dreams played a significant role in this promotion, especially his prediction of seven years of abundance followed by seven years of famine. This proclamation not only showcased his God-given wisdom but also positioned him as a trusted advisor in Egypt. The Lord’s favor moved him into a place where he could have a real and lasting effect on the Egyptian people and culture.

However, what sets Joseph apart is not just his gift of dream interpretation but also his practical wisdom in implementing solutions. Recognizing the coming famine, Joseph devised a comprehensive plan to store surplus grain during the years of abundance, ensuring Egypt’s survival during the famine. His foresight and diligence exemplify the importance of preparation and prudence in the face of adversity.

This chapter holds several relevant lessons for us in our walks with God. Joseph sought to do God’s will and bring Him glory, which led to God’s favor in his life. He wasn’t seeking power or privilege but was instead seeking God and being obedient to Him. Yet, the Lord granted him favor because of his faith.

The Lord is good like that to us. He wants us to pursue Him and His word, not status among people, but He often blesses us and gives us influence and position in the world to bring glory to His name. May we be like Joseph and have unwavering integrity, even in the face of temptation and injustice. May we be wise and prudent in our planning during times of plenty so we can be prepared in times of trial. May we be faithful and obedient in seeking God’s favor, not personal power.

8 Comments

  1. Heidi on April 19, 2024 at 10:25 am

    Genesis 41:16 Joseph answered Pharaoh, “It is not in me [to interpret the dream]; God [not I] will give Pharaoh a [b]favorable answer [through me].”

    Genesis 41:25 Then Joseph said to Pharaoh, “The [two] dreams are one [and the same and have one interpretation]; God has shown Pharaoh what He is about to do.

    It’s all about what Father God is doing!
    He is always working.
    We get to be apart of what God is doing!
    It’s important to remember Father God and Jesus in all we do and know He is with us and be lead by His Holy Spirit to do what He is doing!
    God brings people together to help each other, to bless Father God in all we do, when we do good it’s Him!
    God can give us dreams, visions, scriptures, we can hear him when we (pray) talk to Him,
    He can give us a sign all kinds of ways God communicates with us!
    He is a good good Father that’s who He is, and He gave us Jesus and Hid His Holy Spirit
    Thank you Father God we’re always blessing us to be a part of what you’re doing.

    • Heidi on April 19, 2024 at 3:17 pm

      That was suppose to say
      He gave us His Holy Spirit

      • Trina on April 20, 2024 at 11:06 am

        Genesis Chapter 41 Verse 15
        And Pharaoh said to Joseph, I have dreamed a dream, and there is no one who can interpret it; and I have heard it said of you that you can understand a dream and interpret it.

        Genesis Chapter 41 Verse 16
        Joseph answered Pharaoh, it is not in me; God [not I] will give Pharaoh a [favorable] answer of peace.

        ~Dreams Speak Prophecy~

        God Is Saying To Me:
        Humility goes a long way when serving me. Always look for the optimism in serving me for the kingdom. The more you seek me in humbleness, with integrity looking for the greater good in mankind, you serve me for others. I reward your efforts by giving you wisdom, blessings and sovereignty. All you must do is wait patiently, humbly, seeking me in everything you do!

        What This Means To Me:
        God has an immaculate plan for each of us. His plan for us becomes more fruitful, enriched and filled with blessings, honor and power for His eyes and in the eyes of others. We must represent God well, showing others that we are nothing without Him, giving Him credit for all our faithfulness to Him and through Him. We serve an awesome God! ❤️

  2. PK Chat on April 21, 2024 at 8:48 am

    Have you ever questioned your purpose, asking God, “Why was I created? What am I supposed to do? What is my mission in life?”

    I often find myself pondering these questions. Through reflection, I’ve realized that for many of us, our purpose isn’t about one monumental task but rather a series of seemingly minor ones. These moments—whether they’re activating events, divine appointments, or acts of service—create a mosaic of meaningful experiences.

    In our men’s group, we refer to these moments as “God Ops,” or special operations with God.

    I’ve discovered that the seemingly insignificant details of life hold great importance. It’s about living faithfully with God and serving others that truly matters, culminating in something extraordinarily big, beautiful, and fulfilling.

    1. Learn to wait upon the Lord patiently.
    2. Understand that we are constantly in training for greater challenges.
    3. Strive for excellence in all you do; be bold and courageous. Live a life filled with the Spirit and set a remarkable example for others.

  3. reachchurch on April 21, 2024 at 12:59 pm

    PODCAST
    This Week in the Life: Genesis 41

    For the best experience, we suggest you listen to the first song, the message, and the second song.

    1. Sunday Worship – First Song: https://reachchurch.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/20240421-Worship1.wav
    2. Sunday Message: https://reachchurch.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/20240421-Message.wav
    3. Sunday Worship – Second Song: https://reachchurch.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/20240421-Worship2.wav

    Join the Party Line Live – Schedule: https://reachchurch.org/connect

  4. Javaid Ahmed on April 24, 2024 at 12:07 pm

    God directed me to:

    39 Then Pharaoh said to Joseph, “Since God has made all this known to you, there is no one so discerning and wise as you. 40 You shall be in charge of my palace, and all my people are to submit to your orders. Only with respect to the throne will I be greater than you.”

    He said:

    “My favor goes far beyond what you have and the peace within you. My favor extends like electricity flowing through the conduit of those that know Me and love Me. When you connect with Me, you connect to the hearts of everyone that is with Me.”

    God gives us a network of love to live in, to embrace, and to share more love in. God is the greatest connection we could ever ask for and He allows us to flourish. Thank you God!

  5. Alma on April 27, 2024 at 4:17 pm

    This week I got a song in Genesis chapter 41

    Faithful
    let’s come together to worship our Lord worship, our Lord being faithful, a wonderful servant, walking in his spirit, sharing his love helping others in many situation Let’s have a heart like our Lord let’s have a heart like our Lord showing others his kindness his peace his love. He is an amazing father always working working things out. Let’s be good servants servants of the Lord sharing his word and kindness and love to others. Amen.

    God loves us being a good servant, not afraid to stand up for our Lord helping others share his word, and his love to others amen

  6. Kathy on May 11, 2024 at 1:36 pm

    This is what I got from God in Chapter 41. This chapter shows you sometimes the good you do seems unrewarded, and waiting is a common theme in the Christian life. I often appoint you to wait much longer than you would like. I control your starts and stops. It’s all about My timing. I do speak to you daily. Normally I speak to you through My word. When the time came to get Joseph out of prison, it happened quickly. During the time you have to wait for My timing, I am developing your character. My work in your life is to conform you into the image of My son Jesus Christ, and that takes time. Pharaohs dream was actually My revelation. He couldn’t understand the meaning. This is like when you read the bible, you may need others to help you understand what My words are saying to you. My word is true. Stay close to Jesus and He will guide you along the way. The world has more knowledge than wisdom. Jesus is the answer to gain wisdom. Romans 8:28 And we know all things work together for good to those who love God, who are called according to His purpose for them.

    What this said to me is I want the presence and the power of the Holy Spirit to be seen in my character and humility. I just have to trust in God, and stay close to him while I am waiting.

Leave a Comment