GENESIS 40:16-23

Joseph’s faithfulness is seen even in his interpretation of the baker’s dream. As sad as it was to deliver such a message, Joseph would not swerve from the truth for one moment, even for his own advantage. He realized that it was his responsibility to pass on what God had revealed to him.

Faithfulness is the characteristic that is so greatly needed in our lives today. The Word of God says, “It is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful” (1 Cor. 4:2). Time proved that Joseph had given God’s interpretation of the dreams.

As Joseph knew that the chief butler was now back in his position, no doubt the hope of getting out of prison grew brighter. Surely the butler would remember Joseph to Pharaoh as Joseph had asked. But whatever hopes Joseph had were dashed to pieces, for the Scriptures say, “Yet did not the chief butler remember Joseph, but forgot him” (Gen. 40:23).

Joseph had been concerned about the butler when he was sad and had tried to do all he could to encourage him, but now the butler forgot him completely. What ungratefulness!

Does the ungratefulness of people distress you? Perhaps you have done something for someone and have had to put forth much extra effort, but then they either take it for granted or soon forget it altogether. More importantly, are you grateful when others do things for you?

In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you (1 Thess. 5:18).

Theodore Epp
www.backtothebible.in