Life: Overcome being forgotten

• The Bible Studies for Life lesson for Nov. 2 focuses on Genesis 39:21-23; 40:5-8, 20-23.

Introduction

The inspiration for this lesson comes from the last verse of Genesis 40, which states Pharaoh’s official forgot Joseph. If Joseph set his heart by his circumstances, by now he would have abundant evidence to regard himself insignificant. Betrayed by his brothers, sold into slavery, falsely accused of assault by Potiphar’s wife, and now forgotten by Pharaoh’s official, Joseph could have decided: “This is enough. That was my last chance. I give up.”

Such a conclusion would be based on a selective approach to the evidence, because Joseph could also see the Lord’s presence and meticulous maintenance of his life. The Lord was with Joseph and prospered everything he did. Joseph needed to realize despite the harsh circumstances, accusations and negligence by worldly people, nothing had derailed God’s care for him. God was with Joseph in prison just as he was with him in Potiphar’s house. God remained intensely interested in Joseph, and the world had not stymied his involvement in Joseph’s life.

Occasionally, people feel neglected, run over, mistreated and forgotten. Such feelings are natural, but the truth is God prospers his people despite their circumstances. When thoughts of being forgotten seem to overwhelm, we must remember God was with Joseph in power, and he works similarly in our lives.

Joseph continued to use his God-given abilities (Genesis 39:21-23)

The Lord was so prominently present in Joseph’s life that prison authorities took advantage of it. Verse 22 states Joseph oversaw all people and activities in the prison. He had the warden’s authority for internal matters—a position paralleling his future responsibilities under Pharaoh. Remarkably, Joseph was sent to the prison where Pharaoh sent his prisoners. God placed Joseph close to the authority through whom he would bring Joseph justice.

Many readily conclude God has no knowledge of or interest in their situation. Joseph’s story, however, reminds us God is busy in his people’s lives. He does not abandon them but works to show his attendance to their lives. Surely Joseph realized God’s presence. God gifted Joseph with such character and abilities he naturally rose to leadership.

Joseph rose among his brothers until he was wrongly sold into slavery. Joseph rose in Potiphar’s house until he was wrongly accused. Now Joseph was rising in prison. God was extraordinarily faithful to Joseph. Despite the obstacles the world throws out, the Lord’s rock-steady faithfulness in the lives of his followers cannot be disrupted.

Joseph’s exemplary work included a concern for others in prison. He did not let his circumstances keep him from pointing to God (Genesis 40:5-8)

Chapter 40 teaches the world covets using the Lord’s provision and power for its own ends without pursuing a right relationship with him. In the process, Joseph’s life seemingly is discarded. This, however, is the last major disappointment in Joseph’s life. With God’s power, Joseph rose above his worldly circumstances and flourished in a way never imagined.

The dreams of the Pharaoh’s officials are explained in the chapter text. Nevertheless, it is important to observe God’s mighty work in the episode. He sent dreams for Joseph to interpret. The officials learned Joseph had a special divine connection. Joseph simply recognized the origination of the dreams from his Lord and asked God for the interpretation.

Joseph was far from harboring anger against God. Despite the mistreatment he experienced, his spirit was healthy. Joseph was a veteran at seeking the Lord’s guidance in times of mortal crisis. For Joseph, the most appropriate action in difficult situations was to seek God’s leadership. But this was no mere difficulty. Joseph realized the dreams were invitations to consult the Lord. Verse 8 shows what Joseph has been doing during his painful years of slavery—clinging to God and flourishing on God’s provision and strength.

Ministry and good work is not always immediately rewarded or noticed (Genesis 40:20-23)

The cases of the chief officials were settled exactly as Joseph predicted. Verses 20-22 reflect the wording in verses 13 and 19. The shared word in all five verses is rendered “lift up,” although in verse 19, the English wording often is adjusted to “lift off,” reflecting the baker’s demise in verse 22. The lifting up of the officials’ heads speaks to justice, meaning restoration for the cupbearer, but execution for the baker. No explanation is given for the Pharaoh’s decision. One can only wonder if caprice or wisdom carried the day.

The last verse of Genesis 40 contrasts sharply with the last verse of Genesis 39. Four times Genesis 39 affirms the Lord was with Joseph. Genesis 40:1-20 provides abundant evidence of this truth. Shockingly, Genesis 40:23 ends the story with Joseph hopelessly forgotten and continuing in prison. The situation seems impossible, but reality rarely is served well by appearances.

Joseph’s situation can only be rectified by God. His head will be lifted up by the Almighty. In due time, God will send a dream to Pharaoh that will bring Joseph justice and place him in a position of authority to provide for his family.

We must learn God’s answer regarding one’s life is the final answer. As the chapter closes, Joseph remains in prison, but his life is firmly in God’s hands. God used the prison to protect and provide for Joseph until the grand day of justice arrived.

Joseph was not wasting away in prison. God actively provided for him and was guiding events toward the day when Joseph would receive justice, restoration and status far beyond all expectations. God works similarly in the lives of his people today. We must learn God cares for his people in their circumstances and will provide justice in due time. Meanwhile, God’s people must confidently serve their faithful Lord.