As we continue to consider God’s timing, today we look at another character in Genesis: Abraham. Often it seems that our timing and God’s are at odds. We tend to want everything now, and yet God’s perspective is an eternal one not temporal.

At last we see some light on the dark path that has been Joseph’s life to date. And, if we take a closer look, there is more light than we might first think. We can see how Joseph gives glory to God and is much less about himself and his own importance. God has used Joseph’s story to make him into more of the man he needed for the task ahead of him.

Now we begin to see God’s plan a little clearer. Let’s imagine for a moment if Joseph had not got on his brother’s nerves… He would not have been sold as a slave and then he would not have been falsely accused of wrongdoing.

This time it is Pharaoh’s turn to dream. Today we see the powerlessness of the magicians and everyone else in Pharaoh’s court. While the magicians could not interpret the dreams of Pharaoh, Joseph is confident in his God.

Hopes are raised for Joseph once more. After some time in prison forgotten by all, and yet not by God – for remember God is showing kindness to Joseph – Joseph sees a possible way out. 

Today we find Joseph at his lowest. Rock bottom used to be at the bottom of a pit and then sold as a slave, but today we find Joseph in prison for something he did not do. This is a far cry from the days of grandeur with his ornate coat.

In our reading today we have an insight into Joseph’s character and faith. He is doing his best to live in an upright and godly manner. He chooses to actively avoid Potiphar’s wife by refusing to be with her and resists the constant temptation. It is his faith that helps him in this. It seems unfair then that, as he is fleeing from sin, he ends up accused of the wrongdoing and lands in jail.

In our reading today, we see Joseph in his new circumstances, a slave but making the best of it. Probably working harder than he has ever had to before. He used to be a son of privilege, and he is now a slave – but a prospering one.

The brothers lied and saw the devastation that lie brought to their father, Jacob, and yet they could not admit the terrible truth, even if it might have brought comfort to the old man.