We're into Andrew Lloyd-Webber territory now, as we watch Joseph's career. Apparently the technicolour dreamcoat could just have been "a long-sleeved robe." Not so grand, but its significance is the same. Joseph is special. The question is, is that just Jacob's opinion, or is there something remarkable about this lad that others will see?
Joseph's early days in Egypt
Genesis 39: 2-6
Joseph flees from Potiphar's wife
Genesis 39:7-19
Joseph put in jail
Genesis 39:20-23
Sons of Levi
Exodus 6:16, Numbers 3:17, 1 Chronicles 6:1 & 16
Joseph interprets dreams
Genesis 40:1-23
Death of Isaac
Genesis 35:28-9
Joseph interprets Pharaoh's dream
Genesis 41:1-37
Joseph made governor of Egypt
Genesis 41:38-44
We are told quite clearly that " the LORD was with Joseph and gave him success in whatever he did." It is not that Joseph is remarkable in himself, although he was good looking and clever, but God was on his side. There is the matter of the promise, you see. In the midst of the family turmoil of the last few chapters, it might have been forgotten. Indeed I suspect it was forgotten by Jacob and his family for much of the time. But not by God, who repeatedly turns the bad things that happen to Joseph into good. First, his brother's hatred is turned into gainful employment in Egypt. Then, his mistress's jealousy is turned into useful work in prison. Finally, an official's forgetfulness of Joseph's help to him is turned into Joseph becoming governor of all Egypt - a remarkable rise for a man started out as a puffed up dreamer. God is at work in him, preparing a safe haven for the patriarch's family when the terrible famine comes.
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