Genesis Chapter 40 – Verses 5-7 (NLT Translation)
While they were in prison, Pharaoh’s cupbearer and baker each had a dream one night, and each dream had its own meaning. When Joseph saw them the next morning, he noticed that they both looked upset. “Why do you look so worried today?” he asked them.
Sometimes we can be so focussed on ourselves and our own problems that we pay no attention to what’s going on around us. In spite of his own situation, Joseph took the tie to notice that these men were upset about something. It would have been so easy to dismiss. After all, I’m sure many of the prisoners felt anxious and upset. But Joseph’s enquiry would set off a chain of events that would subsequently have a life changing impact on him and also right across the whole land. Imagine if he’d felt too sorry for himself to ask how these men were feeling!
We should never ignore that little nudge in our spirit that is prompting us to ask someone how they are, or how we can help. Sometimes something that seems quite insignificant can make a huge impact on others, but also on us too. That’s why we need to make sure we don’t become so self-centred that we dismiss the gentle encouragement of the Holy Spirit.
Dear God,
Thank You that You see everything, and that what might seem insignificant to others can be something important in Your plans for us. Help me to be sensitive to what’s going on around me, and especially to the nudging of Your Holy Spirit.
I ask in Jesus’ Name. Amen.