40:1-6
-
Sometimes dreams are from God and can reveal true events, or events to come in the future.
-
Do not be quick to believe that your dreams are from God. This can mislead you if you aren't careful.
-
Understand that dreams that cause strong emotions or great disturbance are more likely to be from God (40:6, 41:8).
-
40:7-23
-
Joseph used his gifts, while in prison, to serve those around him.
-
No matter how hard of a situation you're in, if you keep focused on finding ways to serve others, you will have favor. Stay focused on being selfless, even when times are hard.
-
-
Verse 7. Joseph found ways to serve by noticing people, asking about how they felt, and asking why.
-
Pay attention to how people around you are doing, and you will do better to find ways to serve them.
-
-
Verse 18. Joseph was honest and bold about the truth of a fearful dream, as well as a hopeful one. His gift to interpret was for messages of hope as well as of fear—whatever was true.
-
When you know the truth of something, speak that truth even if it will be painful for the hearer.
-
Do not use your discernment or understanding only to speak uplifting or hopeful things. Use it to warn/correct people also.
-
-
-
Verse 22. Understand that when a gift to interpret dreams is real, what it reveals will always come to pass, just like prophecy (see Genesis 41:54).
41:1-14, 38-46
-
Because Joseph was faithful to serve the butler and baker while in prison, his reputation brought him influence with Pharaoh. When you are faithful to serve others, your faithfulness will grant you greater influence later.
-
Be faithful and obedient where you are now, and you will be trusted with more later (Luke 16:10).
-
41:15-31
-
Verses 15-16. Understand that all your spiritual abilities come from God and His Spirit(1 Corinthians 12:4-11, Genesis 41:38-39).
-
Do not boast about spiritual gifts, and do not take credit for them. Give glory to God.
-
41:32
-
Remember that a dream is more likely to be from God if the same or a similar dream is repeated.
41:33-37
-
Preparation for hard times is necessary (Proverbs 27:12).
-
Saving money is important. Make sure that you are always saving money, and save a lot of it.
-
Verse 37. Truly good advice will be helpful for all people, even unbelievers (Titus 3:8, 1 Timothy 4:8).
-
Don't give “religious” advice to people. Be practical, and especially to unbelievers. This will attract them to Christ more.
-
41:47-57
-
Verse 51. Because of the greatness that God brought Joseph in to, he came to no longer miss his life in the past.
-
Remember that where God is bringing you will always be better than where you are now—better for your growth and better for God's kingdom.
-
-
Verse 52. Joseph was able to succeed in a land of great pain.
-
Be patient and obedient to God in difficult times, and remember that God can make you productive anywhere you are in life. You will eventually forget any pain.
-