Give Glory to God

Dear Friends,

In Genesis 41:1-40, we see that, after a long wait of 11 years, the dreams from Genesis 37 stating that Joseph would be a leader and have prominence are beginning to come to fruition. It is a reminder of the need to be patient in regard to God’s timing.

One of the highlights of this section is that Joseph, when asked to interpret the dream, gives glory to God (41:16). It is a great temptation to take credit for what God alone can do. It is well to remember that all good gifts are from the Lord (James 1:17). Our ability to work and make money, our housing, and our food are all gifts from God. We owe God thanks and praise for every good thing we have.

This passage also reminds us that the wisdom of God is superior to all other human and earthly wisdom. We should be confident in the wisdom of God revealed in the Bible and in the work of Jesus on the cross.

Pharaoh’s magicians heard his dreams and could not interpret them (41:24). Joseph was given ability by God to give the meaning of these dreams and it is amazing that Pharaoh blesses Joseph and puts him in charge. Through this we see the unfolding of God’s promise to Abraham that God will bless those who bless His servants (Gen 12:1-3). Later, a new Pharaoh oppresses God’s people in Moses’s time and God’s judgement falls on him.

God’s Blessing David O’Mara

From the AM Pastor’s Bulletin, 31 Oct 2021