Daily Devotional

“Pharaoh said to Joseph, ‘See, I have set you over all the land of Egypt’ ” (Genesis 41:41). 

He was the greatest political speaker of his time. Dissatisfied people were drawn to his powerful persona. When moderate political par- ties in his country refused to work together, it gave this man’s party even more support. In 1929, when a depression hit the country, people became angry with the existing government. They lost confidence in the democratic system and turned to extremist political parties. 

The rising leader began to hire troopers to attack his opponents. He paid someone to conduct a successful propaganda campaign that won him more support. He targeted specific groups of society with different slogans and policies to win them over to his party. When industrialists saw the possible rise of the Communist party, they gave this new leader their financial support. Finally, in a seedy political deal, two failing leaders gave power to this new leader, thinking they could control him. They were wrong. 

Adolf Hitler’s rise to power is no surprise to history buffs, even though the Nazis created a mythology surrounding his ascent. There is an even more astonishing story of a man’s rise to power in Scripture. While
Joseph languished in prison, Pharaoh had a dream that his wise men and magicians could not interpret. When the Pharaoh’s butler recalled Joseph’s ability to interpret dreams, the Egyptian ruler sent for the Hebrew. With God’s help, Joseph explained Pharaoh’s dream, which foretold seven years of plenty and seven years of famine in the land. 

Joseph outlined a plan to sustain Egypt during the time of famine; the ruler agreed to it and put the young man in charge. Because of Joseph’s wise counsel and prudent administration, the country was saved from disaster. Unlike Hitler, Joseph led Egypt to international power and the ability to bless other nations. 

Joseph’s rise to power reminds us that it is ultimately the Lord who is ruler over all kings, monarchs, presidents, sovereigns, and even dictators. 

Lord Jesus, rule over my life today. Guide my every step. Direct my every thought.