Joseph - Vindicated and Empowered

 

And 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. And he made him ride in his second chariot. And they called out before him, “Bow the knee!” Thus he set him over all the land of Egypt. Moreover, Pharaoh said to Joseph, “I am Pharaoh, and without your consent no one shall lift up hand or foot in all the land of Egypt.” And Pharaoh called Joseph’s name Zaphenath-paneah. And he gave him in marriage Asenath, the daughter of Potiphera priest of On. So Joseph went out over the land of Egypt. (Genesis 41:41–45 ESV).

 

Our reading today is a part of the larger story of Joseph’s release from prison, interpreting Pharoah’s dream, and rise to power. It certainly was an incredible turn of events from what we have seen thus far in his story. Within hours, he was transfigured from living in a dungeon, forgotten and seemingly without a future, to becoming a ruler in Egypt, second only to the Pharoah. He wears fine robes, a golden chain, and Pharaoh’s own signet ring. This is nothing less than a totally amazing transformation, showing what God can do. Indeed, this picture points us again to Christ, who, after suffering the depths of hell on a cross for our sake, died and was buried, and then was resurrected to life and ascended to the heights of heaven—all by the Father’s command.

 

Joseph journeyed from powerlessness in prison to virtual omnipotence as second in command over Egypt, the superpower of its day. Now an entire kingdom awaited his command. That power would be essential in the plan and purpose of God for the nation of Israel. However, it is important for our understanding the work of God in our lives also.

 

Without power, a redeemer cannot bring redemption. And God has chosen Joseph to be a powerful redeemer—for the sake of his people and as a glimpse into the work of Christ, the ultimate Redeemer from our sin. With power, Joseph would be able to save many lives—and that is the truest and best purpose of power, with God’s blessing. In Jesus, it was the ultimate redemption of all those who would come to faith in Him. Today, when we cannot understand our own trial and difficulty, rest in the truth of God using it for good toward us and those we encounter along our journey.