Humility

So Pharaoh sent for Joseph, and he was quickly brought from the dungeon. When he had shaved and changed his clothes, he came before Pharaoh. Pharaoh said to Joseph, “I had a dream, and no one can interpret it. But I have heard it said of you that when you hear a dream you can interpret it.” “I cannot do it,” Joseph replied to Pharaoh, “but God will give Pharaoh the answer he desires.” Genesis 41:14-16

Joseph has been in prison for more than two years, perhaps three or four years, maybe even more. He is there because of Potiphar’s anger when his wife falsely accused Joseph of trying to assault her after he repeatedly turned down her sexual advances. While in prison Joseph gains favor with the warden just as he gained favor in Potiphar’s household. The favor comes from God who Joseph trusts in. This same trust is seen years later when Joseph tells his brothers that what they did in faking his death and selling him, they intended for harm, but God intended it for good to save many lives. Similarly, when Pharaoh asks Joseph if he can interpret dreams, Joseph rightly gives all the credit to God to interpret Pharaoh’s dream. Luke 14:11 tells us that those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those that humble themselves will be exalted. Why is that? Because it requires putting your trust in God to accomplish his will. A great lesson to learn in humility.