Genesis chapter 41 details a very intriguing and inspiring account of Joseph's ascendancy to prince of Egypt. The story begins rather poignantly however, with a series of very unfortunate events.
Always the favourite
As the story goes, Joseph is the favourite child of the patriarch Jacob. He was loved by his father because he was born to him in his old age, but he was despised by his brothers because he was his daddy's favourite.
Truth be told, many of us can relate to the disdain that Joseph's brothers had for him. Whether it's sibling rivalry, or seeing the favourite employee at work, or being in a class where there is a "teacher's pet"; as humans, we don't really appreciate not being the first pick or favourite person in a group. So, it's not hard for us to see why Joseph's brothers disliked him.
Jacob made a beautifully ornate robe for Joseph as a symbol of his approval of him and love for him. His brothers hated him all the more. In Jamaica, the term "bad mind" is one that we are all too familiar with. The term speaks to the heart/emotional condition of hating people for what they have or feeling angered by their prosperity. Quick note, as believers, we must NEVER be "bad mind".
Things escalated quickly when Joseph flaunted his favour in the faces of his family, telling them tales of extravagant dreams which detailed him leading them and them serving him. The fact is if my sister came to me and told me I would kneel to her I am not sure I'd be pleased either, would you?
Plot twist
The next steps taken by Joseph's brother however, can be described as nothing short of drastic. They plotted to kill him but he was saved by one brother (Reuben) and sold into slavery instead. (Genesis chapter 37). While in slavery in Egypt, Joseph's fortunes seemed to rise only as a set-up for a greater fall.
He worked diligently and gained favour in the sight of his master so much so that he led his master's household and managed all his assets. He did so well that his master's wife wanted him to be with her. Joseph refused her overtures and she lied on him that he tried to rape her simply because he denied her advances to honour God and his master; indeed, hell hath no fury as a woman scorned. Joseph was thrown into prison for a crime he did not commit. It appeared Joseph was forgotten. Forgotten by his family, his master, his God.
While in prison however, God favoured Joseph once more, he interpreted the dreams of a cupbearer and baker for Pharaoh and in the due course of time the cupbearer mentioned to Pharaoh what Joseph did for him and Joseph was promoted to prince of Egypt for interpreting Pharaoh’s dreams correctly and giving wisdom.
Sometimes it’s good to be Forgotten
God is reminding us of a couple things- sometimes it's good to be forgotten. Obscurity is our greatest blessing when God wants to train us and teach us in the dark places. Unseen by man does not mean unseen by God. Joseph had to be forgotten by even the cupbearer for just the right season so that he could be remembered at the right time. Joseph was remembered when Pharaoh needed answers and he was the only one who could give them. Joseph was remembered when the entire land of Egypt and the known world was about to enter one of the most destructive famines in history. Joseph was remembered in time to receive a new robe and the signet ring of Pharaoh. Joseph was remembered in time to save the family that forgot him.
Sometimes we need to outgrow our coat of many colours to fit into our new robe of rulership. Trust God in the seasons where you feel forgotten and allow the processes and journeys that he has you on to train you. You're being prepared for presidency. God is restoring your favour and he's is restoring your robe.