May 10, 2008
Steps verses Leaps, continued
19. The fulfillment of his dream positioned him for influence. Pharaoh said, ”I am Pharaoh, but without your word no one will lift hand or foot in all Egypt.” Influence is a currency (see my book, God’s Currency). Pharaoh transfered unto Joseph his signet ring which was the King’s authority. He distinguished him among the crowd through his clothing and jewelry. Then he gave him a forerunner announcing Joseph’s position.
20. Joseph began to establish a financial system of prosperity. Having interpreted Pharaoh’s dream, Joseph knew that he had 7 years to prepare and position the kingdom. Proverbs says, ”He who gathers little by little prospers.”
21. Joseph had two sons - Forget and Twice Fruitful. When you’ve been wronged, abused, misunderstood, faced injustice, slandered, and falsely accused, in order to prosper, you must forget so that you will be twice fruitful.
22. Joseph’s brothers do not recognize the man who he had become. There will be a day that when your dream becomes reality, those who opposed you will not recognize the person that you are.
23. Joseph’s family bowed to his honor. Joseph’s brothers lowered their heads and bowed in his presence fulfilling his original dream. Joseph realized that the original dream meant something very different. Joseph originally thought of the honor that he would receive from his family. Now he realizes the responsibility that he had for his family.
24. Joseph tested his brothers before trusting them. When I was young and naive I trusted people, now that I am mature and wise I test people. My greatest mistakes in life has involved my ingenuous trust in people. I have a unsuspecting trust that people are as they present themselves. Now, after years of being side-swiped by the vile character of betrayal, I know to test those with whom I have relationship.
- Conclusion