Having Our Mind on God
Genesis 41:25–40
Since God has shown you all this, there is none so discerning and wise as you are. Genesis 41:39
When Pharaoh placed Joseph in charge of all Egypt, he did so because of two rare qualities in Joseph. First, he noticed that Joseph was “discerning and wise.” This was a recognition of Joseph’s character. Second, he noticed that Joseph was one “in whom is the Spirit of God” (v. 38).
Pharaoh perceived that this young man had something he did not have and that God was its source. This is always the case. When a man or woman is touched by God, that person will inevitably be different from those unconverted people around him or her, and the change will be strikingly for the better. Oh, at first there may be resentment that the one whom God has saved no longer has the same values or does the same things as others, things that fill the mind and time of his or her former companions. They may say, “So-and-so thinks he is too good for us” or “She’s making a fool of herself with all this religious nonsense.” But in time the criticism gives way to admiration and even to the appointment of such a person to a position of great honor.
Pharaoh saw this supernatural character in Joseph. Moreover, he recognized its source and knew at once that this was the man he needed to guide Egypt in the difficult times ahead.
I wonder if people see this kind of character in us and if they recognize that it is God who has given it to us. The only way we will ever have that character (and the only way that others will ever see it) is if we have our eyes on God in all things. What happens if we see circumstances apart from God? If circumstances bring adversity, we complain and consider the world and those responsible to be unjust. If circumstances bring prosperity, we boast and think that somehow we are ultimately responsible. The one character is whining and unpleasant. The other is arrogant and intolerable. But if we have our mind on God, we see God in circumstances and trust him. Adversity strengthens and mellows us. Prosperity humbles us and draws us even closer to the Lord.
Just a dream? No, rather a dream sent by God.
Just a prison? No, rather an experience that a wise and loving God has deemed necessary for our maturing.
Just a job?
Just a friendship?
Just an accident? No, rather that in which the hand of God is working for our and others’ benefit. The Bible says, “for those who honor me I will honor” (1 Sam. 2:30). Learn to honor God in all things and see if he does not advance you even in the eyes of others.
Taken from Come to the Waters by James Boice ISBN 9798887790954 used with permission from P&R Publishing, Phillipsburg NJ 08865
Scripture quotations are from the ESV (the Holy Bible English Standard Version) copyright 2001 by Crossway a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. All rights reserved.