Day 43 – Genesis 41:14-16
It Is Not in Me
Scripture Reading – Genesis 41:14-16
Then Pharaoh sent and called Joseph, and they brought him hastily out of the dungeon: and he shaved himself, and changed his raiment, and came in unto Pharaoh.
Genesis 41:14 KJV
And Pharaoh said unto Joseph, I have dreamed a dream, and there is none that can interpret it: and I have heard say of thee, that thou canst understand a dream to interpret it.
Genesis 41:15 KJV
And Joseph answered Pharaoh, saying, It is not in me: God shall give Pharaoh an answer of peace.
Genesis 41:16 KJV
Scripture Review
Pharaoh sends for Joseph, and he is brought hastily out of the dungeon. Joseph shaves, changes his raiment, and stands before the king. Years of waiting turn suddenly into minutes of preparation. When Pharaoh says he has heard that Joseph can interpret a dream, Joseph answers, “It is not in me: God shall give Pharaoh an answer of peace.”
That reply shows what the prison years have not taken from him. Joseph does not resent the butler, flatter Pharaoh, or seize the moment to build his own name. He corrects the king’s assumption before hearing the dream. God is the interpreter. Joseph can be used, but he is not the source. Shaving and changing clothing respect the audience and Egyptian custom; giving God the glory protects Joseph from changing inwardly to win the room.
Pharaoh meant to bring before him the man reputed to possess an unusual power of interpretation.
God meant to bring His prepared servant before the throne and hear that servant confess publicly that the answer belonged to God alone.
What this asks of me
I should prepare carefully for an opportunity without pretending I created the gift that makes me useful. Good appearance, clear speech, and respect for authority do not require spiritual compromise. Before I accept praise, I need Joseph’s answer in my heart: it is not in me; whatever is true and useful came from God.
Consider
- Can I receive an important opportunity without making myself the center of it?
- Where should I give God clearer credit for an ability He has entrusted to me?