- Scripture: Genesis 41:46–57
- The Anchor: “So Pharaoh said to Joseph, ‘See, I have set you over all the land of Egypt.’ Then Pharaoh took his signet ring from his hand and put it on Joseph’s hand, and clothed him in garments of fine linen and put a gold chain about his neck.” – Genesis 41:41–42 (ESV)
Pharaoh promotes Joseph to basically the Prime Minister of Egypt because he proposed the plan and Pharaoh sees that Joseph is a man who has the Spirit of God. Pharaoh even gives Joseph his signet ring, signifying authority. Pharaoh gives Joseph a wife: Asenath, an Egyptian woman. By this time, 13 years had passed since he last saw his family. Everything happened to Egypt just like Joseph said, and he followed through with his plan. He had two sons: Manasseh, which means “causing to forget,” and Ephraim, which means “fruitful.” During the famine, Joseph provided everyone with food, even those from faraway nations. This leads well into a future event.
I want to be like Joseph—a man who God’s Spirit shines through. However, I know Joseph took literally 13 years for his faith to get to this point. My mom and I were talking yesterday, and I now understand how foolish I am for thinking of myself with pride and self-righteousness. I’m really looking forward to the next few years of my life, and I hope and pray that I will grow to be someone who God is pleased with.
I think it’s interesting that Manasseh and Ephraim both had Hebrew names even though Joseph had an Egyptian wife and he had been living in Egypt for 13 years now. His faith was still in the same God of his youth. Through his sons, Joseph expressed God’s grace and love for him.
Reflection
- You noted that Joseph spent 13 years in preparation before reaching this point of authority and influence. When you feel the weight of your own growing pains or current struggles, how can you shift your perspective from wanting “instant” results to appreciating the time God is using to shape your character?
- Despite living in the heart of Egypt and having an Egyptian wife, Joseph gave his sons Hebrew names, keeping his faith firmly anchored in the God of his youth. In your own life, what are the “names” or habits you are keeping to ensure your faith stays centered on God even when your environment feels completely different?
Prayer
Lord, thank You for the grace You show me even when I am foolish or prideful. Thank You for Joseph’s example of faithfulness through 13 years of waiting. Help me to be a person whose life clearly shows that Your Spirit is dwelling within me, and keep my heart anchored in Your truth regardless of my surroundings. Amen.