Genesis 40:14 (Joseph said to the king’s cupbearer while they were both in jail) “But remember me when it is well with you; please do me the kindness to make mention of me to Pharaoh, and so get me out of this place. 15 For in fact I was stolen out of the land of the Hebrews; and here also I have done nothing that they should have put me into the dungeon.”… 23 Yet the chief cupbearer did not remember Joseph, but forgot him.

We’re told over and over in Genesis that the favor of God was with Joseph – despite his many trials and tribulations. As a boy Joseph was thrown into a pit by his brothers and left for dead. He was then sold into slavery in Egypt, then tossed in jail after being falsely accused of attempted rape. Here he did a favor for one of his fellow prisoners in hopes the cupbearer might do him a solid once he was set free. He didn’t. I can’t imagine how disappointing this must have been for Joseph. Things did eventually work out for Joseph, but it took many years to come about.

God has Joseph right where Joseph was needed. 

It’s true that God will send us into seasons of struggle and pain if that’s what’s required to serve God’s purposes – though it’s hard to know that’s what’s happening in the midst of the pain. I’m guessing some of you reading this post fall into that category right now. If that’s you I pray for the Lord to give you peace as you wait for relief and blessing to come. Lord, let it be so. Amen.