Day 37 – Genesis 40:23
But Forgat Him
Scripture Reading – Genesis 40:23
Yet did not the chief butler remember Joseph, but forgat him.
Genesis 40:23 KJV
Scripture Review
Genesis 40 ends with one sentence: “Yet did not the chief butler remember Joseph, but forgat him.” Joseph’s interpretation was exact. His request was reasonable. The butler returned to the very room where a word to Pharaoh could help, and he forgot. Two more years will pass before Genesis 41 opens the door.
This is where the study slows down because life sometimes slows down here. I can handle a closed door better when no key exists. It is harder when the key is carried by someone who promised nothing, owes gratitude, and simply does not think of me. Human forgetfulness feels personal, but it is not final. God did not forget Joseph when the butler did. The delay would place Joseph before Pharaoh on the exact day Egypt needed God’s wisdom, not just on the first day Joseph wanted freedom.
The butler meant to resume his restored life and allowed Joseph’s request to disappear from his active concern.
God meant to hold Joseph for the appointed hour when his release would answer a national need and make the source of his wisdom unmistakable.
What this asks of me
I can ask to be remembered without making another person my hope. People forget; the Lord does not. Waiting is not wasted just because I cannot see new movement. I want to be found faithful when the forgotten name is finally spoken, not bitter, careless, or spiritually asleep.
Consider
- Have I made another person’s memory the foundation of my hope?
- What kind of person am I becoming during the part of the story that seems delayed?