Devotion:
Read Genesis 40:1-8.
This week’s theme is using whatever gifts God has given us to serve the needs of others. Joseph had a gift for interpreting dreams. He was willing to use that gift to help others, even while in prison.
Imagine from Joseph’s perspective that he probably felt as if he had nothing to give to others. But he had a unique gift which God had given to him to interpret dreams.
Dreams were a big part of Joseph’s life’s story. As a youth, Joseph dreamed about eleven bundles of grain, each representing one of his brothers, which bowed down to his bundle of grain. In another dream, which Joseph shared with his family, the sun (representing his father) and the moon, (representing his mother) and eleven stars, (representing his brothers) all bowed down to him. These dreams, of course, made his whole family upset and his brothers extremely jealous!
In today’s scripture passage, Joseph is sharing his gift of interpreting the dreams of his fellow prisoners. In two years, this gift would open the door for him to be released from prison to interpret Pharaoh's dreams. This would lead to Joseph becoming second in authority to Pharaoh.
Notice in verse 8 that Joseph gives credit to God for the gift to interpret dreams. The gifts we have been given to share with and serve others have come from God, too. Sometimes we might be like Joseph’s older brothers and be jealous of the gifts God has given to others. Our jealousy causes us to lose sight of the unique gifts we have been given which can truly help others.
It’s wonderful to be a part of a church and to observe the various gifts, talents and experiences among the people! Pondering the multitude of ways our church helps others, we can give God thanks for the amazing variety of gifts God has given to share Christ’s love with the world!
Personal Worship Option:
Perhaps someone shared with you their unique gift at the right time to help you through a difficult time. Pause and give God thanks. Is there someone God is leading you to help with the unique gifts God has given to you?
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