God can even use prison for His benefit and glory! Joseph has the opportunity to interpret in His name to these two men – one favorably and another not so much. God uses Joseph in the midst of Joseph's worst situation in life – which begs the question – Is God using you for His glory right now? If not, why not? He can use you anywhere and anytime. Obviously Joseph was trustworthy and a leader – even in prison! The captain of the guard put him in charge of the two men before he had the opportunity to interpret their dreams.
Chapter 41 strikes me for Joseph's boldness before the Pharaoh. As you may know, Egyptians had a full pantheon of gods, often pharaoh being one of them. Yet Joseph stands before him and in boldness tells him that God will be the one to interpret the dream. Notice how Joseph had to shave before going to pharaoh? This should be no surprise as many of you have seen paintings and movies involving Egypt and you notice that the men were often clean-shaven and hairless. Pharaoh obviously sees the same leadership qualities in Joseph that Israel, Potiphar and the captain of the guard see – for he puts Joseph in charge of much – the whole land of Egypt. This proves to be wise, as Joseph will show himself to be wise and able.
In 42, Joseph sees his brothers again and is broken by seeing them. He deals roughly with them, it says, by putting them in jail for a few days and then keeping Simeon –asking them to bring their "youngest brother" with them when they return. He does this "to prove they are not spies" but also to get to see his only full brother – Benjamin. They are concerned when they find that all their money is still in their grain sacks. Imagine that walk home. They have eliminated Joseph in their minds – now have lost Simeon in their minds. Reuben reminds them that he said it was a bad idea to harm Joseph – and that now they are being cursed for it. Joseph is doing what he can to stay true to the Egyptians and to be able to see his brother. This story is amazing.
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