Observation: Joseph is about to be liberated by prison, through the fact that God allows him to discern the meaning of dreams. However, Joseph makes an interesting statement in verses 25 and 28. In both, he states the fact that God has revealed to Pharaoh what he (God) is about to do.
God could have revealed his objectives to Joseph, as the most fervent of the believers of Yahweh in Egypt. Instead, he revealed his objectives to a person who had no faith at all. God didn't want to bring about plan just by using Joseph, but instead he wanted to directly use Pharaoh, communicating with him and then allowing all the other dominos that had already been put in place - the cupbearer's time in prison, Potiphar's wife's false accusations, and the selling of Joseph by his brothers - to now fall orderly.
It isn't just that God can make a good outcome from bad situations. God can in fact actively use non-believers within the bad circumstances to fulfill his long-term plan.
Application: There is so much happening in the 'bad situation' of our lives today. Believers in Jesus Christ know he can turn it for good. However, do we also believe that he can use those non-believers who are currently operating out of fear and hopelessness to actually produce that 'turn'?
I do believe that, as long as I am also willing to do my part, speaking in love and truth about Jesus when given the chance. Joseph was bold to say that God would reveal through him what Pharaoh's dream meant. But he was also discerning when he understood God himself had revealed his purpose to Pharaoh, employing Pharaoh in the revelation of the plan. God can reveal his plan to ... anyone, in any station, with any mindset, and in any state of faith.
Prayer: Lord, you love all people, and we believers do not own a monopoly on your love and kindness and blessing and support. May we all look for opportunities to do your will, especially when that will is to discern your love when it is given to those who are far from you. Amen.
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