Genesis 41:37-38 – So the advice was good in the eyes of Pharaoh and in the eyes of all his servants. And Pharaoh said to his servants, “Can we find such a one as this, a man in whom is the Spirit of God?”
The man whom Pharaoh recognized as capable for such a task was Joseph, in whom was the Spirit of God. This is the first mention in the Bible of the Holy Spirit coming upon a man. Pharaoh saw that Joseph was filled with the Spirit of God. Centuries later Daniel was chosen to be the third highest ruler in Babylon for the same reason. Joseph had been faithful over all the little things God sent him; now he would become ruler over all the land of Egypt under Pharaoh. At the very least, Pharaoh acknowledged that Joseph was extraordinarily wise. Or more likely, he testified to the reality of God’s power in Joseph’s life. What a great blessing it was for Joseph to be used by the Lord in such a wonderful way. Joseph is a good example of a man who seemed to have all the gifts and talents for leadership. God developed his character and talents over many years. Gifts and talents may be impressive and immediate, but character is what God looks for and those always take time to develop. This is a tremendous transition in Joseph’s life. He went all the way from the back of the jail to the throne next to Pharaoh. Joseph allowed God to mold him until He was ready to use him.
Challenge:
The thing I love the most about these verses is that Pharaoh recognized how Joseph possessed the Spirit of God by the actions he displayed. Do people see the wisdom of God coming out of your life? Has God been demonstrating His power through you in order to reach the lost souls in your circle of influence? Your challenge this week is to let the power of God flow through your life with the wisdom that is from the Holy Spirit. Joseph was simply a man used by God to get to Pharaoh’s heart. Perhaps your boss will take notice of how God is working in your life this week. Maybe your coworkers will acknowledge how Jesus has empowered you to withstand the pressures at the office unlike any others there. What if your teacher saw how God’s wisdom came through for you in regards to your term paper or homework assignment? We need more people in this world that are willing to be led by the Holy Spirit of God. Men and women who are submitted to the Lord’s leading. Individuals who are seeking God’s heart and His will. Let God use you this week in ways that others will take notice. God bless you and have a wonderful Veterans Day.
