Genesis 39:1-41:16
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Today in Genesis chapter 39 we read about Joseph in Potiphar's house! Verse 5 stood out to me in this chapter: "From the day Joseph was put in charge, the LORD began to bless Potiphar for Joseph's sake. All his household affairs began to run smoothly, and his crops and livestock flourished." I found it fascinating that God was blessing Potiphar for Joseph's sake. It reminded me of God blessing Laban for Jacob's sake earlier in Genesis. And I wonder - does God today continue to bless others around those who love God? For the sake of those who love God? I will admit that there are definitely times in my work life, where I feel like some very positive things are happening that are beyond me. Things I am not "controlling" on my own - it's something more. I do try to pray about my work life and pray that God will bless my business dealings - mostly to keep me honest & moral in my business dealings. And that God will allow me to love and serve others during the day. And big crazy good things continue happen - something happened just today that was unbelievable to me. It did not happen because of my own wits or power. Below is an image from a modern day production of "Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat" of Joseph in Potiphar's house:

Verses 8 & 9 also stood out to me in today's readings, demonstrating Joseph's strong moral integrity when being approached by Potiphar's wife: "But Joseph refused. "Look," he told her, "my master trusts me with everything in his entire household. No one here has more authority than I do! He has held back nothing from me except you, because you are his wife. How could I ever do such a wicked thing? It would be a great sin against God."" I admire this so much. Joseph was gaining more and more favor with Potiphar and more and more "power" so to speak. And here we see a situation where Joseph could have abused his favor and power. But he did not. He stood strong with his moral convictions. And I wonder about this in our lives. As we maybe gain more and more favor in our work or personal or ministry lives, do we also gain more and more "power" so to speak? And when this happens, do the temptations maybe even somehow seem to get bigger and bigger and our opportunity to abuse our favor or power get easier and easier? And in light of all this, will we stand strong by our moral convictions? Will we realize, like Joseph, that our favor or power only comes from God - and it can be taken away in an instant if we sin against God? If we give in to the temptation that pursues us... Below is an oil on canvas painting by Rembrandt from 1655 titled "Joseph Accused by Potiphar's wife":

In Genesis chapter 41 we read about Pharaoh's dreams and Joseph is called from prison to interpret them. The cup-bearer finally remembered Joseph 2 years later! :) Verse 16 is powerful for us to consider as Pharaoh calls for Joseph to interpret his dreams: ""It is beyond my power to do this," Joseph replied. "But God will tell you what it means and will set you at ease."" What I like about this reply from Joseph is that he is giving credit to God for his "gift" of being able to interpret dreams! And really, it is God interpreting the dreams, and letting Joseph know what to say. I wonder about this in our lives today. Do we have some unique gifts in our lives? Things that we are really good at? And do we give credit to God for these gifts in our life? Or do we claim them as gifts we developed on our own? Do you believe that God is truly the Gift-Giver of all your skills and talents and wisdom in your life? Below is an image of Joseph before Pharaoh interpreting his dreams:

Bible.org's commentary on Genesis chapter 39 titled "From the Penthouse to the Prison" is at this link and commentary on chapter 40 titled "How to Get Out of the Pits" is at this link.
Worship Video: Our readings in Psalm 17:7 today remind me of the song "Mighty To Save." Here's Laura Story performing the song live:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tcwBUauhobY
Is God Mighty to Save in your life? Click here for his Might!
Comments from You and Questions of the Day: Based on my comments above related to our readings in Genesis about God blessing Potiphar for Joseph's sake - I wonder - does God intervene and bless our work lives? I think He does. I'd love to get your opinions on this - do you pray about your work life regularly? Do you think God blesses your work life? And like Joseph, does God maybe bless those around you, even if they aren't necessarily in relationship with God? And maybe does He do this for your sake? Also, what verses or insights stand out to you in today's readings? Please post up by clicking on the "Comments" link below!
God bless,
Mike
p.s. I would greatly appreciate it if you would pray for this Bible Blog ministry today! Please also consider partnering with us by financially supporting this ministry. Thank you!
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