Text: Genesis 41:33-57 A Selfless Act (Genesis 41:33-37) Joseph not only interpreted Pharaoh’s dream but also gave a wise plan—without demanding reward. His insight into taxation and food storage showed a remarkable understanding of Egypt’s economy, likely learned during his years managing Potiphar’s household and the prison. Joseph did not look for promotion or reward … Read more
Genesis 41:15-32 The Anticipation of Peace (Genesis 41:15-24) Even though Pharoah had everything anyone could desire, humanly speaking, none of that mattered without peace. He looked for it from his own gods and found no relief. He sought peace from his best counsellors, but none of them could help him. Given time, he may have … Read more
Genesis 41:1-13 Part 1: The Pain of the Peaceless The Walls That Couldn’t Bring Peace Belfast, Northern Ireland, is home to what are ironically called “Peace Walls.” Originally built in the 1920s and significantly expanded from 1969 onward, these barriers were meant to separate warring communities. Yet, rather than preventing violence, many of the Troubles’ … Read more
“…it is the job of generals and admirals and air marshals to prepare for wars. They can only prepare for war at all sensibly if they envisage an antagonist and when they cannot see an obvious antagonist, then they find unlikely antagonists.” – A.J.P. Taylor It is a good leader that prepares for war without … Read more
Part 3: Faith Exalts God Despite the Circumstances Genesis 40:23 Joseph had interpreted the butler’s dream correctly, and the butler was restored to his position. Surely, Joseph must have thought his freedom was near. But the butler forgot him. For two more years, Joseph remained in prison, seemingly forgotten. How do we respond when our … Read more
Part 2: Faith Empowers Us to Help Others Despite Our Circumstances Genesis 40:9-22 Even in prison, Joseph had the wisdom, compassion, and faith in God to look beyond his own suffering and recognize the needs of others. He noticed the sadness of Pharaoh’s butler and baker, and he took the time to ask them what … Read more
Part 1: Faith Encourages Us Despite the Circumstances Genesis 40:1-8 We routinely will find ourselves in difficult situations, often when we least expect it. Joseph, falsely accused and imprisoned, found himself in yet another trial. However, instead of wallowing in despair, he remained steadfast in faith. He had been attacked and sold by his brothers. … Read more
The story of Ernest Shackleton is perfectly summed up by the title of this book taken from the ship on which he sailed, endurance. Ernest Shackleton’s leadership, skill, and determination not only saved himself but the 28 men who sailed with him from almost certain death. What he and his men went through to survive … Read more
Devotion 3: “Secure in His Walk with God” Scripture: Genesis 39:13-23 Key Verse: “But the LORD was with Joseph, and showed him mercy…” – Genesis 39:21 After Joseph resists temptation, he is falsely accused and thrown into prison. Yet, even in this moment of apparent defeat, the Bible reassures us: “The LORD was with Joseph.” … Read more
Devotion 2: “Separated to God” Scripture: Genesis 39:7-18 Key Verse: “How then can I do this great wickedness, and sin against God?” – Genesis 39:9 Temptation is a part of life, but how we respond to it reveals the depth of our walk with God. It’s important to realize that resisting temptation does not make … Read more