November 15, 2025
Joseph – A Faith That Carries Through
Devotions from the Life of a Dreamer with Character
18.From Prison to Palace
When God Elevates – In His Way and In His Time
Daily Bible Verse
“Then Pharaoh sent and called Joseph, and they quickly brought him out of the pit. […] You shall be over my house, and all my people shall order themselves as you command.”
Genesis 41:14, 40
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Introduction
The cold of the iron chains weighed heavily on Joseph’s wrists. Only a narrow beam of light pierced through the prison bars, mixed with the damp smell of dungeon walls. One more day—he thought. One more day in obscurity.
Suddenly, hurried footsteps echoed through the corridor.
“Joseph! Get up! Pharaoh is calling for you!”
In just a few moments, the shackles were removed, clean clothes were brought, and he was led out—out of the darkness, through the bright, expansive halls of the palace.
That day, everyone saw only the great moment: the prisoner became a ruler, the slave a leader.
But what no one could see were the invisible years of preparation—betrayal, slavery, prison—every stage forming the character of the man now standing before the most powerful ruler of the known world.
When Joseph stood before Pharaoh, he did not speak bold or self-promoting words, but simply said:
“It is not in me; God will give Pharaoh a favorable answer.” (Genesis 41:16)
That was the fruit of a long, inner journey.
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Joseph’s Journey: Deeper Insights into the Character of One Called by God
Joseph as a Young Man
Perhaps as he approached the palace, Joseph thought back to his youth in Canaan—to the dreams he had shared with his brothers. Back then, he was young, maybe a bit proud, and believed their fulfillment was near.
But God knew: The promise was there—but his character wasn’t ready yet.
The First Break: Betrayal by His Brothers
As he walked toward Pharaoh, he may have recalled the dull echo of the cistern his brothers had thrown him into. The very people who were supposed to love him tore him from everything he knew.
This deep injustice taught him not to idealize people, but to trust God.
In Potiphar’s House
The steps leading to the throne room might have echoed the ones he took while serving in Potiphar’s house—faithfully, diligently.
Back then, he was brought down by a lie. He learned:
You can do what is right and still suffer injustice—and still remain in God’s hand.
In Prison
Perhaps he still smelled the scent of the prison in his clothes as he approached Pharaoh.
There, he had learned to serve others—even when his own prayers seemed unanswered.
There, his faith matured until he was ready.
The Turning Point
When Pharaoh asked him if he could interpret dreams, Joseph responded without hesitation:
“It is not in me; God will give Pharaoh an answer.”
These words weren’t just a religious phrase—they were the sum of all his years in God’s training school.
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What Can We Learn From This Long Journey?
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God sees more than potential – He wants maturity.
Dreams show possibilities.
But only character enables you to carry them without harming yourself or others. -
Prisons aren’t always punishment – sometimes they’re a school.
God may take you out of the spotlight to strengthen you in secret. -
Waiting isn’t a waste of time.
God works in the depths. He anchors what will later need to stand firm. -
The door to your calling often opens when you least expect it—but when you’re inwardly ready.
God acts suddenly—but never unprepared. -
Power and influence are not the goal—but a responsibility.
Joseph didn’t use his position for revenge, but for blessing—that shows true greatness.
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What Can We Learn From Joseph?
1. God Uses Detours for Preparation
Joseph’s journey wasn’t straight. Betrayal, slavery, prison—none of that was in his original plan.
But these very stations were used by God to shape him.
Sometimes, God prepares you in the depths before He lifts you up.
2. Faithfulness in the Hidden Places Matters
Joseph didn’t wait passively. He served actively—in Potiphar’s house, in prison, in obscurity.
He used his gifts without an audience, without applause.
Whoever is faithful in little, God can entrust with more.
3. Character is More Important Than Talent
Joseph had dreams from the start—but he had to learn how to handle them with responsibility.
What enabled him to stand before Pharaoh wasn’t just his gift—it was his refined character: humility, wisdom, self-control.
4. Waiting Is Not Wasted Time
Joseph was forgotten for two years—but not by God.
In the waiting, he developed patience, inner strength, trust.
God is never late—just often later than we expect.
5. God Opens Doors—At the Right Time
When Pharaoh needed a dreamer, Joseph was ready.
He didn’t have to free himself or push his way forward.
God is able to make you seen—when your time has come.
6. Forgiveness Frees – Not Power
Joseph later had all the power to take revenge on his brothers. But he chose forgiveness.
His heart wasn’t poisoned by bitterness—but healed by God’s love.
The ability to forgive is often the greatest sign of true maturity.
7. God’s Plans Are Greater Than Our Dreams
Joseph’s dreams were fulfilled—but not in the way he imagined.
They became part of God’s greater rescue plan for many.
What God does often goes far beyond our personal expectations.
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Practical Questions for Reflection
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Which times in your life felt like “prisons”—and what might God have been doing in them?
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Is your heart still ready if God suddenly opens a door that has long been closed?
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Are you using your gifts faithfully today—even if no one is watching?
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Prayer
Lord,
Thank You that You are working in me even when I can’t see it.
Help me to see waiting not as a burden, but as preparation.
Shape my character so I can carry what You entrust to me with wisdom and humility.
Give me a heart that longs not for power, but for faithfulness to You.
When Your time comes—make me ready.
Amen.
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Key Thought of the Day
Calling requires preparation.
God shapes in the hidden places before He elevates in the visible ones.
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Blessing to Close
The God who led Joseph through deep valleys and entrusted him with great responsibility
is also with you—in every room, every detour, every waiting season.
May He see your heart, honor your faithfulness,
and give you the maturity that can carry your calling.
And when the day comes that He calls you—
may your heart be ready.
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