Forgiveness Pt. 11: Living the Dream

Before picking up where we left off yesterday, I want to re-cap what we learned:

·       Joseph went to work immediately assessing the needs, meeting, organizing, etc.

·       Pharaoh was completely hands off during the entire process as he trusted Joseph’s decision making process;

o   This can be very challenging for leaders (in and out of the church) for a variety of reasons:  intimidation, low self-esteem, ego, jealousy, etc. all of which will undermine your business, department you oversee, ministry, etc.  If you work with a subordinate that is more knowledgeable than you, learn how to harness their knowledge so that it works in your favor.  Micromanaging people always ends poorly:  they die creatively or they leave, either way, you lose.

·       The dream came to past

·       The Egyptians despised Hebrews, probably just as much if not more as Caucasians despised (and in some cases still despise) African-Americans.  They were fully aware that Joseph was in charge of the food they needed so they went to Pharaoh when their needs surfaced and he sent them right to Joseph the HHIC (head Hebrew in charge)

·       His brothers arrive in Egypt during the famine.  Joseph recognized them immediately but kept it under wraps.  Joseph is a full grown man now, his appearance, body build and voice have completely changed.  Never in a million years did they think they would ever see him again so it was completely understandable that they didn’t recognize him.

Let’s pick up at Genesis 42:6:  Can you imagine what is going through Joseph’s mind at this time?  He had the power to do whatever he wanted to anyone he wanted.  Remember, he is second in command of the entire Country.  The power he had was lethal because he didn’t answer to anyone except Pharaoh and the likelihood of Pharaoh siding with a commoner, palace official or let alone a foreigner was highly unlikely.  They ruled with a top down dogmatic approach that you do as I say and you do not question me.  It’s hard to serve under people like that, especially today and believe it or not, that leadership style still exists, especially in the African-American Church.

Again, I go back to what I said earlier, the lessons that Joseph learned in humility during his 13 year training were invaluable character builders.  Even though Joseph had forgiven his brothers years ago, the fact that they were standing before him had to shed new light on the dynamics.  He was within his right to “play with them” to get information about his father and brother.  I don’t see it as mean or an abuse of power.  Part of the game was to speak to them in the Egyptian language and use an interpreter while they spoke in Hebrew.  He asked why they had come, they answered to buy food; he accused them of lying and said they were spying to look for their (Egyptians) weaknesses.  They assured him they weren’t spies, told them about their father who had 12 sons one of which was no longer with them and that they were just honest men trying to buy food for their families.  Joseph talked harshly to them and continued to accuse them of being spies to which they continued to deny but each time they did, they gave more information about their family.   Joseph’s emotions must have been like a raging sea as he recalled the dreams he had as a young naïve 17 year old but he kept his emotions in check.  (Genesis 42:9).  Then he pulled rank and said:  “You are all spies as I have said.  This is how I’ll test you. As Pharaoh lives, you’re not going to leave this place until your younger brother comes here. Send one of you to get your brother while the rest of you stay here in jail. We’ll see if you’re telling the truth or not. As Pharaoh lives, I say you’re spies.”  Then he threw them into jail for three days.  On the third day, Joseph spoke to them. “Do this and you’ll live. I’m a God-fearing man. If you’re as honest as you say you are, one of your brothers will stay here in jail while the rest of you take the food back to your hungry families. But you have to bring your youngest brother back to me, confirming the truth of your speech—and not one of you will die.” They agreed.  Genesis 42:14-20 (The Message).

Then they started talking to each other in Hebrew, blaming each other for their past sins.  “Now we’re paying for what we did to our brother—we saw how terrified he was when he was begging us for mercy. We wouldn’t listen to him and now we’re the ones in trouble.” Reuben broke in: “Didn’t I tell you, ‘Don’t hurt the boy’? But no, you wouldn’t listen. And now we’re paying for his murder.” Joseph had been using an interpreter, so they didn’t know that Joseph was understanding every word. Joseph turned away from them and cried. When he was able to speak again, he took Simeon and had him tied up, making a prisoner of him while they all watched.  Genesis 42:21-24 (The Message)

Why Joseph made a choice of Simeon, I don’t know.  Personally, I would have chosen Judah since he was the one that came up with the idea to sell him into slavery.  I’m just sayin’.  I haven’t had the experience of three meals and a cot and have no desire to do so, it’s not on my bucket list because I like wearing my own underclothes, eating what and when I want, using a bathroom with a door and squatting to exercise vs. releasing paraphernalia, but of those I know personally who have, it can be a life changing experience.  

They must have been horrified to see Simeon bound as a prisoner especially since he hadn’t “done anything”.  Your sins have a way of catching up to you eventually.  But why throw them all in jail?  Was it to give them a taste of what life had been like for him?  That short three day period certainly didn’t compare to his 13 year experience, however, it did paint a vivid picture.  Even though the guilt of their actions must have been eating the brothers up inside they probably didn’t speak about it like we do today as it relates to things we are ashamed of and/or we want to disappear.  Pressing mute on painful situations never makes them go away, they just lie dormant taking on other forms like hurt, anger and bitterness which can turn into hatred, cancer, strokes, heart attacks, depression, etc.  What’s even worse is when people start to perpetrate the very things that suppressed them, thus beginning a cycle.  It seems to me that Joseph was determined not to allow that to happen to him.  He had released forgiveness but he wasn’t ready to reveal his identity just yet.  Perhaps it had something to do with timing, figuring out where they were mentally or if they had any remorse for their actions to help him better understand how to proceed and that’s exactly what happened. 

After Simeon was bound and returned to prison Joseph ordered his workers to fill the other brothers’ sacks with the grain they came to purchase along with their money and sent them on their way.  When they stopped to camp for the night one of the brothers discovered his money in his grain sack and they all panicked, wondering what God was doing to them.  When they got back home they told Jacob, their father everything that happened.   The accusation of being spies, being thrown in jail for three days, keeping Simeon as a hostage, demanding that they return with their younger brother to prove their innocence which allow them to come and go from Egypt freely and Simeon would be freed.  After recounting the events of their journey, they all began to unloaded their sacks and to their horror their money sacks were there too!!!

This was confusing and overwhelming for Jacob.  He probably started to think of his past sins with his brother Esau, possibly wondering if he was still being punished for tricking his twin brother out of his birthright.  Then Jacob spoke out and said:  You’re taking everything I’ve got! Joseph’s gone, Simeon’s gone, and now you want to take Benjamin. If you have your way, I’ll be left with nothing.”  Reuben spoke up: “I’ll put my two sons in your hands as hostages.  If I don’t bring Benjamin back, you can kill them. Trust me with Benjamin; I’ll bring him back.”  But Jacob refused. “My son will not go down with you. His brother is dead and he is all I have left. If something bad happens to him on the road, you’ll put my gray, sorrowing head in the grave.”  Genesis 42: 36-38 (The Message)

To be continued …

In His Excellent Service

Tania Not Tanya

Forgiveness Pt. 10: A Made Man

Saturday we learned that:

·       It took him a good minute but Joseph’s “cellie”, Cup E. Berry, hooked him up with his boss, Pharaoh;

·       After accurately interpreting Pharaoh’s dreams and rattling off a detailed plan of action related to the dreams, Pharaoh made Joseph a member of "the Family" and he became a “made man”.  He went from second in command at Potiphar’s house; to second in command of the prison to second in command of the Palace.  A position similar to the US Vice President without the drama of Congress, Senate, filibustering, etc;

·       He created his own job description and started the same day;

·       He was an ex-con, previously incarcerated, re-entering society as a Made Man, shot-caller, HHIC (head Hebrew in charge) with the sole responsibility of saving an ENTIRE country and answering only to Pharaoh.   

·       He was pardoned and his record expunged, all in the same day.  Who says a previously incarcerated person can’t “come up?”

·       Joseph was the epitome of a humble servant leader and credited God for all his abilities.

·       He got all the fringe benefits you could imagine: palace, chariot, servants, competitive salary, etc.  Pharaoh’s signet ring (to validate documents, etc. distributed) and an Egyptian wife from royalty;

·       Joseph entered the palace as a slave, the property of Potiphar who threw him in jail two years prior because his lying wife accused Joseph of attempted rape making him a slave-prisoner but he left the palace a free man;

·       Lastly Joseph never took credit for his abilities, he testified of God’s goodness with his life and his mouth

Tania Not Tanya Nugget:  Can you imagine how cocky he could have been if he had not been humbled through this experience?  His gift was serving others at a higher level.  Never let anyone hate on you for being an assistant.  People in leadership need good qualified people that they can count on to do the things they don’t have the capacity for (e.g. time, experience, knowledge).  If that's you, you're just as important as the leader, you’re just in the background.  A self-confident person can work anywhere, even with an apron on.

Genesis 41 (paraphrased):  I can imagine Joseph moving with the grace, wisdom, expertise and expertise never before seen.  However, he knew that time was of the essence because God gave the same dream twice in one night which meant that the events were going to begin immediately.  According to the dream there was going to be seven years of plenty followed by seven years of famine.  Joseph didn’t want the Egyptians to have a false sense of security with the plenty so he knew it was imperative for him to act quickly by educating the people as to what was to come.  His no nonsense attitude was stern but not so rigid that he breaks the backs of those he works with. He gets along with everyone, even the haters like Mrs. Potiphar (whose husband was a palace official) because no one wants to be on Pharaoh’s bad list.  He calls for all of the existing managers to determine their capacities.  He keeps some and replaces others, nothing personal, it’s just business.  He calls for some of those he “slaved with” at Potiphar’s house and others he did time with in Pharaoh's prison because he knew they'd ride hard like fo’ flats on a rainy day.  Those brothers and sisters would go to hell and back if necessary for Joseph because they were loyal.  They have a series of meetings for several weeks, planning, tweaking, more planning and then begin their outreach campaign to inform the Country of what is to come while at the same time surveying the land, inspecting crops, flocks, storehouses, etc.  

He is personable with the locals assuring them but not making promises he cannot meet.  Some of his “cellies” who are now managers vouch for Joseph in their “hoods” letting people know that Joseph is “good people”.  The natives him because they can feel his heart and passion, but having the extra validation from folks they know solidifies their feelings.  They inspect the storehouses and Joseph employs some of the locals that come recommended by his previous “cellies” as contractors for repairs, to build additional storehouses, install security systems, warehousemen, administration, shipping and receiving, etc.  This is a massive project, but nothing gets past Joseph because he seeks God daily for direction, who overshadows him with favor, wisdom and knowledge and he is surrounded by people that he has empowered to do their jobs.  He reports to Pharaoh on an as needed basis so that Pharaoh can focus on other kingdom related business.  He trusts Joseph fully.

The people did an amazing job cooperating during the first seven years, but signs of the famine start to become evident.  The lack of rain, extremely hot weather, pest epidemics (locusts, flies, cankerworms, etc.) was beginning to affect the Country, especially those who failed to take precautions and listen to the warnings about the upcoming famine.  The Egyptians began to feel the sting of famine and looked to Pharaoh for help but he re-directed them to Joseph and instructed them to do what whatever Joseph told them to do.  (Genesis 41:55).  Joseph’s God-inspired plans worked flawlessly, which allowed Pharaoh to be at ease during this most difficult time but as the famine’s fangs stung like that of an inland taipan snake Joseph began to open the storehouses and sell the grain they worked so hard to preserve seven years prior.  This was a big deal as it affected the entire Country of Egypt though one translation says it was a world-wide famine.   Needless to say the famine also affected Canaan, Joseph’s homeland which was somewhere in the neighborhood of 250 miles and was about a 30 day journey.  How do I know? 

Tania Not Tanya Nugget:  1) Cellie: a person whom served time with another.  Similar to a co-worker, college roommate, etc. 2) Leaders, if you're going to assign people to do the work, give them the freedom and flexibility to do so.  No one can be productive with an insecure, egotistical leader who micromanages over his people because you will suffocate them.  If you're not going to trust them don't appoint them; 3) Leaders, don't allow your subordinates to circumvent processes you have in place. If they are supposed to go to John Doe for XY & C but they come to you instead, that can be a potential powder keg.  

Genesis 42 (paraphrased):  While Joseph's immediate family and the rest of Egypt had food to eat his brothers were sitting around like idiots trying to figure out what to do.  Their father, Jacob (aka Israel) heard that there was food in Egypt and asked them why there were sitting around looking at each other like they were going to grown grain.  He ordered them to go to Egypt and buy food so we don’t starve to death.  All of the brothers prepared to leave except Benjamin, who is an adult now, but Jacob refused to allow him to go on the trip because of what happened to Joseph.  When the ten brothers arrived in Egypt they had to go before Joseph to purchase their food.  They had no clue who he was, but Joseph recognized them immediately.  The first thing they all did was to bow low before him as was customary to royalty in that time period and they treated him with honor.  His first dream had come true 13 years later.

·       Joseph had a dream. When he told it to his brothers, they hated him even more. He said, “Listen to this dream I had. We were all out in the field gathering bundles of wheat. All of a sudden my bundle stood straight up and your bundles circled around it and bowed down to mine.” His brothers said, “So! You’re going to rule us? You’re going to boss us around?” And they hated him more than ever because of his dreams and the way he talked. (Genesis 37:5-9 (The Message)

To be continued 

In His Excellent Service

Tania Not Tanya

Forgiveness Pt. 9: You Gone Learn Tah-Day

We ended this past Thursday’s declaration hanging on pins and needles.  Before we jump in let’s do a recap.  Joseph was summoned from the prison dungeon (jail) by Pharaoh because the cupbearer told Pharaoh that Joseph interpreted a dream for him and it came true.   Joseph asked the cupbearer to hook him up once he got out but the cupbearer forgot about him until now, two years later when Pharaoh is on a rampage because none of his magicians could interpret his dream.  When he learns of Joseph’s abilities he quickly demands that he be brought to him at once.  I believe Joseph was snatched from his cell with no idea what was going on, where he’s going and who wants him.  He doesn’t know if he will be executed, though the likelihood is illogical based upon how God has favored, preserved and protected him all these years, but still not knowing is completely unsettling.  He arrives at an area of the palace where he is ordered to bathe, get a haircut and change clothes.  I can just hear Joseph in his mind: “For real, you’re ordering me to do what I have longed to do for years?  Watch how fast I move.”  After he completed the process:

·       the pit experience for humility;

·       the servant experience for leadership;

·       the beginnings and intermediate experience management for commercialized managerial experience;

·       the solitude of being alone to fine tune his ear to God’s voice;

·       becoming all types of people (favored son, responsible, brother, envied, jealous, hated, confused, hurt, foreigner, slave, bi-lingual, entrapped, accused, prisoner, lonely, abandoned, faithful, true worshipper, etc.) to identify with all types of people

Joseph is now ready to be presented by the King of Kings to Pharaoh

Joseph hears the sound of the trumpets blasting, a very familiar sound which he heard often depending on what part of the dungeon he was in but now he understood it was to announce the entrance of those about to be presented to Pharaoh.  He was unexplainably calm as the huge double doors engraved with images from his dreams as a child opened slowly to reveal the largest most exquisitely decorated room (if you want to call it that) he had ever seen in his life. 

Most people in Joseph's position would have been terrified to go before Pharaoh, but the peace that oozed from Joseph's pores was unexplainable.  He could feel the stares and questions of “who does this Hebrew think he is?” as he passed some of the cabinet members and other attendees but Joseph didn’t care, he shot back that answer: “you gone’ learn tah’day” without ever opening his mouth.  He held his head a little higher as he made his way to the throne.  He felt invincible as he took each step towards Pharaoh, not because he was cocky, but because he was CONFIDENT.  The emotion of the past decade tried to well up when he got a glimpse of Potiphar and his wife through his peripheral vision, but he quickly put it in check, crushing the thoughts with each step he took.  He thought to himself:  “they gone learn tah’day too.”  There was no time to focus on the past, this was a new day and he was fully prepared.  He had no idea what was about to happen but he was certain this was his dreams come alive.  As he got closer to the throne he recognized the cupbearer!!  Joseph thought to himself: "I guess he did come through for me after all."  Joseph remembered the eunuch’s instruction about protocol and just as he was about to open his mouth to acknowledge Pharaoh and his close advisors Pharaoh rose from his throne approaching Joseph with such aggression that it threw everyone off.  His royal military aids (secret service) were at his side with their swords drawn faster than Joseph could blink but they did no harm to him because Pharaoh raised his hand to signal that all is well.  It wasn't Pharaoh's intention to startle anyone, he was just so relieved to see Joseph.  The synergy was instantaneous, as if they were old friends reconnecting after many years.  Pharaoh couldn't tell if it was because of the peace that exuded Joseph or the confidence. Joseph attempted to begin the formal greetings but Pharaoh waved his hand as if to say: "Man, forget all that we need to chop it up about this dream." and then he said: 

“I dreamed a dream and nobody can interpret it. But I’ve heard that just by hearing a dream you can interpret it.” Joseph answered, “Not I, but God. God will set Pharaoh’s mind at ease.” (Genesis 41:15-16 MSG)

Joseph testified about how awesome God is to Pharaoh.  He isn’t bitter about his life, he is giving God

credit.  People that are bitter, angry, cocky, arrogant and full of themselves don’t testify about God’s ability.  If it wasn’t clear before it should be abundantly clear now that Joseph emphatically relied on God for absolutely everything, including interpreting dreams.   While he wasn’t disrespectful, he skillfully corrected Pharaoh in the text above when he admitted that he [Joseph] couldn’t interpret the dream but God could.  This was no small thing to say to someone with the power and authority that Pharaoh had but I don’t believe Joseph was afraid of Pharaoh or anyone else at this point, given all the trauma and drama he had experienced in his life.  As Pharaoh described the two dreams, God gave Joseph the interpretation which in short was that there would be seven years of extreme prosperity followed by seven years of extreme famine.  So not only did God give Joseph the “complete” interpretation of Pharaoh’s dreams, but he gave him a full proof plan on how to save Egypt.  Genesis 41:17-32 paraphrased.

Seven is the number of completeness and perfection (both physical and spiritual). It derives much of its meaning from being tied directly to God’s creation of all things. 

The Plan:  Genesis 41:33-36 (NLT):  “So, Pharaoh needs to look for a wise and experienced man and put him in charge of the country. Then Pharaoh needs to appoint managers throughout the country of Egypt to organize it during the years of plenty. Their job will be to collect all the food produced in the good years ahead and stockpile the grain under Pharaoh’s authority, storing it in the towns for food. This grain will be held back to be used later during the seven years of famine that are coming on Egypt. This way the country won’t be devastated by the famine.”  Game recognizes game.  Pharaoh recognized Joseph’s good character, strength and leadership because he had those same traits, but he wasn’t intimidated by it like so many leaders can be, even today.  Pharaoh was a wise man, this was no time to play testosterone games.  But remember, God’s favor enveloped Joseph and Pharaoh was powerless to God. 

The Suddenly:  “Isn’t this the man we need? Are we going to find anyone else who has God’s spirit in him like this?” Genesis 41:38 (The Message).  Joseph went from the pit to the palace in one day and in that one day God’s favor caused Pharaoh to appoint Joseph as second in command of Egypt with the sole responsibility of carrying out the plan he had just articulated. God created a position for him.  Joseph went from being second in command at Potiphar’s house to second in command in the Prison to second in command of the Palace – the entire Country of Egypt – in one day!! That’s what you call a “suddenly moment”.  Joseph was 30 years old when he went before Pharaoh.  Thirteen years had passed from the time that he was ripped from his father’s watchful eye.  He did thirteen hard years, of which the last few were the most difficult but we can also view it as thirteen years of training.  Did you know it take about the same amount of time to become a medical doctor?  Joseph was in training at the University of Egypt.  However you look at it he never ever gave up hope. 

But that’s not all dear heart, Joseph showed himself so faithful to God during his thirteen year run, that God lavished him with things he would have never received on his own:  He became second in command of an entire COUNTRY (equal to Vice President of the United States) – no campaign, election, etc.; Pharaoh placed his signet ring on Joseph’s finger (to validate his orders, documents, etc.); He gave Joseph a new name Zaphenath-Paneah (God Speaks and He Lives); Pharaoh acknowledged God based upon Joseph’s reverence of God; Pharaoh gave him an Egyptian wife, one of royalty; God blessed Joseph’s marriage and he had two sons:  the first born, Manasseh ( which means forget), saying, “God made me forget all my hardships and my parental home.” He named his second son Ephraim (Double Prosperity), saying, “God has prospered me in the land of my sorrow.  Genesis 41:50-52

Tania Not Tanya Nugget:  A pharaoh was the most powerful person in his country who ruled upper and lower Egypt (equivalent to the President of the US).  Some of you may be familiar with the pharaoh that hated and enslaved the Jews whom Moses later delivered.  This is the beginning of that story but it takes place several hundred years later.   

To be continued ….

In His Excellent Service

Tania Not Tanya

Forgiveness Pt. 8: The [Light] Sound at the End of the Tunnel

I have read the story of Joseph several times during my lifetime but I admitted in yesterday’s declaration (BLOG) Even I Can See That: Forgiveness Pt. 7 that I discovered a new truth.  Joseph forgave his brothers without knowing if he would ever see them again.  He didn’t forgive with his mind or lips, this is only possible by forgiving with one’s heart.  It didn’t matter that his brothers were in a different country.  Joseph’s heart was with him (literally in his body) and he went through whatever process to make a decision to forgive them which is evident by his language.  So far we have not referenced any scriptures which quote Joseph as identifying himself as a slave, he refused to allow the sound of those words leave his mouth, instead he tells the cupbearer and baker that he was “stolen” or “kidnapped” – depending on what version of the bible you read.  How is it that Joseph who has no Pastor, Teacher, Apostle, Bishop, Bible, Bible App, family, mentors, Victory Room, 6:00 am prayer call, etc. There is no one to speak into or over his life to help him with what was the most devastatingly difficult process he had or would ever face, family, hurt?  If anybody had a justification for holding on to un-forgiveness Joseph would get my vote.  He didn’t use the excuse of needing to face his accusers he simply let it go.  Making the choice to “simply” let go doesn’t mean it was easy.  At the end of the day God is our source for EVERYTHING, including the ability to forgive those who hate us, even if you are your hater. 

Tania Not Tanya Nugget:  True forgiveness can only come from the heart, everything else is lip service which is a step below a lie.  Naw, I’m kiddin’ it’s a lie posing as 1/8^th of the truth.  Well not really, it’s a lie, even if the lie you tell is to yourself.  I know you probably want it to be a gray, white or “ernge” lie, but it’s a real one, for real, I’m not making this up.  Guard your heart from being a pretender; guard your heart from abuse, further hurt, lies, things that are negative that may cause you to become ill—physically, mentally and/or spiritually.  Keep and guard your heart with all vigilance and above all that you guard, for out of it flow the springs of life.  Proverbs 4:23 (AMP)    

Genesis 41:  The empty sound of no one coming to his rescue had been ringing in his ears for two full whole years since the cupbearer was released from Pharaoh’s dungeon and the head baker was beheaded (no pun intended).  Joseph continued to serve in excellence as he waited and believed God for release.  In my mind I tried to imagine which situation was better: a slave hounded by an OG snap (aka Cougar, aka older woman that likes much younger men) or being a slave-prisoner.  As much as I hate to admit it, at least he was able to move more freely, sleep in a comfortable bed, take care of his hygienic needs, eat better food, etc. but that kitty cat “on his line had to be the business”.  And then it happened.  Pharaoh had a dream two years later that disturbed him enough to wake him from his sleep but when he went back to sleep he dreamed a dream even more troubling than the first.  When morning came he was irritated, angry, confused and perplexed so he called for all of his top magicians but none of them could interpret the dream.  I want to say that the cupbearer remembered Joseph miraculously, but I have a feeling he remembered how much he disliked being imprisoned and how much he liked his head so he probably thought of Joseph at that point.

In ancient times when things didn’t go the way the Pharaoh (or a King) wanted he could order that the offender be tortured, imprisoned and/or killed on the spot he didn’t have to really have a reason.  Needless to say, upsetting him made for a highly stressful situation for every and anyone.  At any rate the cupbearer falls over his words apologizing for not alerting Pharaoh about Joseph sooner and that Joseph interpreted a dream for he and the baker that was 100% accurate.  I can just hear the sound from Pharaoh as he roared: "WHAT, YOU KNEW OF AN INTERPRETER AND YOU SAID NOTHING?!!!!!!!!! BRING HIM TO ME AT ONCE.”  Given that Joseph’s whereabouts Pharaoh knew that it would take a while for them to present him properly because of the conditions of the dungeons.    

Tania Not Tanya Nugget:  Can we have a Selah moment right here (press pause)?  You know what it feels like when you’re funky and can’t wait to get in the tub or hot shower right?  That’s probably how Joseph felt magnified except his funky anxiety was probably multiplied by 178,000.  I realize that God’s favor was over Joseph but there were certain amenities that were not available during that time period as they are now for county and state prisoners. 

Directing your attention back to Genesis 41:9-14.  This is what I imagine took place:  The guards rush in and practically yank him from the dungeon, scaring the living daylights out of him.  He has no idea what is happening because the guards are practically carrying him somewhere but where?  His mind is racing and the sound of his heart is pounding so loudly he wonders if the guards can hear it.   The palace was massive, he tried to take it in but they were moving too fast and his mind was full of so many possibilities that he really couldn’t take it in.  He wasn’t sure but it seemed as if they were going deeper into the palace which was a good sign because he didn’t imagine executions took place in this immaculate edifice.  Besides, that couldn’t be a possible outcome, he knew God had better for him.  They reach what he thinks is their destination a bathhouse!!!  He stands there in confusion because he doesn’t know if this is where he will now be serving.  They order him to disrobe and bathe.  He looks dumbfounded and this time the guards bark orders at him to bathe.  In about 1.5 seconds he is naked and in a tub that’s so large 20 overweight people could fit in it and there would still be room.  He submerges himself completely under water and begins to pray: Father, what’s happening? The sound of the father’s silence is deafening. Am I to be executed?  More silence.  Has my family finally come for me?  Louder silence, and then he hears the sound of a still small voice:  For this is the will of God, that by doing good you may put to silence the ignorance of foolish men 1 Peter 2:15 (NLT).   The tears rush out and mix with the bath water that is quickly turning a murky gray from all of the residue of the pit (mistreatment, hurt, envy, jealousy, hatred, slavery, loneliness, false accusations and Pharaoh’s grimy dungeon).  He’s down there so long that the eunuchs panic and splash the water to get his attention.  He surfaces to the top with the force of an athletic swimmer.  They give him scented soap to wash his body, hair and beard which he gladly does as he praises God inwardly for what is about to happen.  Though he is absolutely clueless of what’s next he has learned to trust God and go with the flow.   

The eunuchs hurry him out of the pool and give him a large towel spun with fine Egyptian cotton (the finest in all of the world even in the 21^st century).  They hurry him off to another room full of oils which overwhelmed his senses, he had never smelled anything so beautiful.  They tell him to quickly pick one and he selects one that is slightly earthy with a hint of sweetness.  As he oils his body he can barely contain the joy that is bubbling up in his spirit.  They hurry him to yet another room where a eunuch was on standby to cut his hair, shape and trip the beard he wanted to keep.  From there he was escorted to a dressing room where a set of garments were neatly folded on an exquisitely designed oak table along with a pair of new leather bound sandals!!!!  These new garments replaced the raggedy ones that were weighted with mourning, disappointment, dirt, etc.  He quickly dressed himself, slips his feet in the sandals and after he fastens the strap on his left foot he stands up and sees a glimpse of himself in the full length beaten brass mirror for the first time in his life.  He is stunned at the reflection of the grown man in the mirror.  He can’t believe how much he looks like his father, it’s amazing.  He sees the eunuch approaching him from behind with a beautiful garment in his hands and without missing a beat the eunuch raises the garment to Joseph’s shoulders and guides his arms in each arm hole of the robe made of Egyptian silk and many colors as it falls freely over his body like the righteousness of God falls over us.  To console those who mourn in Zion to give them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that they may be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the Lord, that He may be glorified. Isaiah 61:3 (NLT) Joseph can no longer contain his emotion.  He knows from having served with Potiphar that these are garments for officials. The eunuch keeps his hand on Joseph’s shoulder and says: it’s ok, it’s ok but we have to hurry or Pharaoh will be highly upset.  

He wipes his face with his towel, takes another look in the mirror, pops his collar (though the others have no

idea what he’s doing) and quickly follows the eunuch to wear the guards are pacing with impatience.  They walk hurriedly to another location, but Joseph’s steps are different this time because ALL of the uncertainty is gone.  He immediately finds his rhythm for his new found swag and as he follows the rhythm of his own drum playing audibly only to him.  With every destined step he takes he feels his calling come alive and as he continues to walk it out he steps back into dignity, purpose, passion and self-respect as every step shoots confidence up his spine and settles in his scarred heart.  They finally arrive at these massive double doors with pure gold handles and hinges that were elegantly but oddly decorated.  One door had an engraving of one large bundle of wheat surrounded by 11 smaller bundles and to his astonishment the other door was decorated with a large sun and moon surrounded by 11 stars.  Joseph’s knees buckled at what was before him, his dream coming to life in more ways than one.  Thankfully the guards were there to catch him.  He could hardly believe what he saw.  He heard the trumpet blast on The Other Side the sound was deafening, and then it happened  ….

To be continued ....

In His Excellent Servcie

Tania Not Tanya

Forgiveness Pt. 7: Even I Can See That

We discovered in the blog yesterday that after being thrown in jail because of the false allegations of Potiphar’s wife Joseph quickly learned to navigate the “system” and was again elevated to a leadership position while he was a slave-prisoner.  He did such an amazingly incredible job that the Warden (head jailer) put Joseph in charge of all of the prisoners and allowed him to "reign" over the prison as he saw fit and NEVER checked on him again.  Was this because of Joseph?  In part, but primarily because of God’s favor over his life. Genesis 39:23.  By now Joseph has to have recounted the dreams he had while living with his family.  Even though he wasn’t with them parts of the dreams were coming alive, especially the parts about everyone bowing to him, which simply translated into him

being in a leadership position, not that he was better than anyone.   I have no doubt that The PP Committee (Pity and Party) showed up unannounced frequently but Joseph refused to open the door to doubt, fear, discouragement, blame, anger, etc.  He was anything but a dummy which is why I believe he could finally start to see a ray of hope, even while in jail.  The hope wasn’t like a bright shining star but there was enough that even Stevie Wonder and Ray Charles could see the hand of God moving in Joseph’s life and though he couldn’t identify it completely he knew God was up to something.

How else could he explain two elevations to managerial positions as an inexperienced young slave boy?  Think about it, Joseph was managing OGs doing time, some longer than he had been alive.  He didn’t have to prove himself to anybody, it was is if God made everyone cooperate and roll out the “red carpet” for him.  God took what Joseph had and multiplied because Joseph was willing.  Had he participated with the PP Committee, God would have found another source to work through and reward.  Two scriptures come to mind as it relates to Joseph’s managerial promotions:  

Well done, my good and faithful servant. You have been faithful in handling this small amount, so now I will give you many more responsibilities. Let’s celebrate together.  Matthew 25:21 (NLT;) and

When someone has been given much, much will be required in return; and when someone has been entrusted with much, even more will be required.  Luke 12:48b (NLT)

Tania Not Tanya Nugget:  Never allow the lack of experience to be the reason you don’t pursue your dream(s).  If you put forth your best natural effort, God will step in with his super efforts and create a supernatural success story customized just for you.  His only criteria is found in Isaiah 1:19 (NKJV): If you are willing and obedient you shall eat the good of the land.

Let’s pick the story up at Genesis 40.  Two of Pharaoh’s officials, his head cup bearer and head baker ticked Pharaoh off and he had them thrown in the palace jail were Joseph was. He interacted with them on a regular basis enough to know their moods and personalities.  One night they both had dreams and when Joseph greeted them the next morning he noticed they appeared depressed so he asked them what was wrong.  They responded that they had dreams but there was no one to interpret them.  Again, dreamers were very important, highly respected and sought after during ancient times as I stated in Forgiveness: Part 1.  Joseph’s response was: “Don’t interpretations come from God?  Tell me the dreams.”  Genesis 40:8 (The Message) So far the scriptures have only told us about two dreams that Joseph interpreted: 

Genesis 37:5-7 (The Message):  Joseph had a dream. When he told it to his brothers, they hated him even more. He said, “Listen to this dream I had. We were all out in the field gathering bundles of wheat. All of a sudden my bundle stood straight up and your bundles circled around it and bowed down to mine; and

Genesis 37:9 (The Message):  He had another dream and told this one also to his brothers: I dreamed another dream—the sun and moon and eleven stars bowed down to me!

Tania Not Tanya Nugget:  Based on his confidence in Genesis 40:8 it seems logical that Joseph may have had other dreams that he interpreted (for himself or others) and they came to pass, why else would he be so confident?  God may have spoken to him in dreams to show him how to strategically maneuver in his new world, etc.  God is not limited to one specific type of communication with us.

Genesis 40:9-11 (The Message) First the head cupbearer told his dream to Joseph: “In my dream there was a vine in front of me with three branches on it: It budded, blossomed, and the clusters ripened into grapes. I was holding Pharaoh’s cup; I took the grapes, squeezed them into Pharaoh’s cup, and gave the cup to Pharaoh.” Joseph’s interpretation was that within three days, Pharaoh was going to release him and return him back to his previous position.  Joseph asked that when the cupbearer was released that he tell Pharaoh about him so he could get out of there because: “I was kidnapped from the land of the Hebrews. And since I’ve been here, I’ve done nothing to deserve being put in this hole.” Genesis 40:15 (The Message)

Tania Not Tanya Nugget: Does it sound like Joseph is finally complaining? Or does he seize the opportunity to ask for what he wanted?  Yet you don’t have what you want because you don’t ask God for it James 4:2 (NLT). We don’t have the right to complain if we don’t position ourselves for the right help.  Lastly, Joseph says he was “kidnapped” the KJV says he was “stolen”.  It appears that Joseph has already forgiven his brothers for selling him into slavery and rather than accuse them, he is careful about the language he uses.  That is not an accident.

Genesis 40:16-17 (NLT): When the head baker saw how well Joseph’s interpretation turned out, he

spoke up: “My dream went like this: I saw three wicker baskets on my head; the top basket had assorted pastries from the bakery and birds were picking at them from the basket on my head.” Joseph interpretation was that in three days he was going to be be-headed and impaled on a post and the birds were going to pick his flesh off his bones.”

In three days’ time both officials were summoned by Pharaoh and judgment was passed over them exactly as Joseph interpreted, but the cold part about it was that the cup bearer forgot all about Joseph, he never mentioned him to Pharaoh. 

I’m out of time.  We will pick it back up tomorrow.

In His Excellent Service

Tania not Tanya

Forgiveness Pt. 6: But I’m Innocent!!

Yesterday we learned that: 1) Joseph adjusted to his new lifestyle exceptionally well given the circumstances which may have appeared to be hopeless.  His attitude, faithfulness and obedience to God allowed him to live in favor while serving as the head of Potiphar’s household as a slave; 2) the characteristics of integrity, diligence, dependability, leadership, etc. that Joseph was despised for by his brothers were traits that helped him to excel and obtain recognition at this phase in his life; 3) Potiphar’s entire household was blessed because of the favor on Joseph’s life (e.g. property, money, crops, etc.); 4) Joseph was fine as aged wine and Potiphar’s nameless wife was an undercover OG snap (aka, Cougar, aka older woman on the prowl for youngsters) who was “on Joseph’s line” (aka she wanted to have sex with Joseph); 5) He refused to compromise his values and commitment to Potiphar his earthly master but primarily because of his commitment to obeying God – at 17 years old.  As a result of his stand, he was thrown in jail, that’s where we left off.  Generally speaking when a slave is found guilty or suspected of disobedience they are tortured, killed and/or both, but in this case, Potiphar threw him in jail.  Was is it because he was a weak slave master?  Had his nameless wife cried foul before?  Or was it the hand of God over Joseph’s life?  Correct, it was the latter.  God’s favor will cause us to show up at the right place at the right time; it will cause people with the power, ability and influence to help us and it will cause people to go out of their way to help us, even those that spitefully use us including our enemies.  Psalm 110:1 (NLT) The Lord said to my Lord, sit in the place of honor at my right hand until I humble your enemies, making them a footstool under your feet.    You can catch up to the story by visiting my blog page: http://dailyflicker.blogspot.com/ 

Let’s pick up where we left off with Joseph being thrown into Pharaoh’s jail after being accused by his slavethat is not this.   Joseph was an Egyptian slave.  You can imagine that he had similar feelings to anybody else who was falsely accused except his would have been multiplied by 150,000.   There was no public defender; pending court date; bail bondsmen; OR (release on your Own Recognizance) legal aid; prisoner advocates; ACLU; Human Rights Commission; three meals and a cot;  orange, blue or white uniforms, no phone calls; money on his books; commissary on Thursdays or visits from family, friends or “pot’nahs”.  Did I mention that Joseph was a slave at the mercy of his earthly master Potiphar, prison officials, other prisoners in general population and on top of all of that, he was PRETTY!!!! (aka strikingly handsome -- Genesis 39:6-7).  Guys with pretty faces don’t generally do very well in prison from what I hear. 

master’s wife of attempted rape, tried by the accused woman’s husband (who had influence with the Warden because he was an Officer in Pharaoh’s palace) and sentenced by the same man.  I don’t know if any of you have ever been falsely accused, but I can guarantee you

·       Genesis 39:19-20 (The Message) When his master heard his wife’s story, telling him, “These are the things your slave did to me,” he was furious. Joseph’s master took him and threw him into the jail where the king’s prisoners were locked up.

Most people would have probably lost it (and all hope) after this second blow below the belt, assuming that they were being punished for something they did wrong and if they were affiliated with a church, some of those people would have volunteered to participate on the accusation committee.  It never ceases to amaze me how quickly Christians assume the worse instead of remembering that God allows us to go through many challenges to build areas in our lives (faith, strength, courage, etc.) but he also allows us to go through things to get us from one level to the next and if we fail the test we repeat it very often in a different format.  Quite naturally if we willfully sinned against God there will be repercussions and he will discipline us accordingly just as a parent would discipline a child for willful disobedience.  Revelations 3:19 (NLT):  I correct and discipline everyone I love. So be diligent and turn from your indifference.  Just as no rational thinking loving committed parent would arbitrarily discipline their child(ren) for no cause neither will our heavenly father.  But make no mistake about it, if we need to be disciplined we will get it lovingly.   

·       Genesis 39:21-23 (The Message) But there in jail God was still with Joseph: He reached out in kindness to him; he put him on good terms with the head jailer. The head jailer put Joseph in charge of all the prisoners—he ended up managing the whole operation. The head jailer gave Joseph free rein, never even checked on him, because God was with him; whatever he did God made sure it worked out for the best.

Tania Not Tanya Nugget:  All of the positive references in the scripture above equal God’s favor but what is amazing is that EVERYTHING Joseph decided to do was not only blessed, but God made sure he succeeded.  There were no errors and blundering mistakes.  He can and wants to do the same thing for us.

It appears that Joseph is a magnet to ill treatment but even with the crappy treatment by others, Joseph still has favor with God.  Have you noticed that there is not one scripture text which refers to Joseph’s complaints, not one single time?  While I am not in any position to assume anything, it would be wrong to state that Joseph was a whiner, because we have no documentation to support that statement.  How can someone suffer as much as Joseph and not complain?  Well in my humble opinion there are a couple of scenarios to consider:  1) God gave Joseph the grace to face these challenges without complaining at all; or 2) he didn’t verbalize his complaints to others, he “manned up” when in the presence of others but when he was alone with God, he poured his heart out not necessarily in the form of complaints but asking for his help, wisdom and knowledge.  I am more apt to lean towards both scenarios: 1) God’s grace allowed Joseph to go through the fire like superhero; 2) because Joseph was human, he had to have a way to express his emotions with someone he could trust, who better than God.  We are not privy to it because he talked to God privately about his journey and concerns.    That’s how God designed this journey, that we seek him first, acknowledge him in all of our ways so he can direct our path, but we seek our own path first and then when we can’t find it we want to lean on God to bail is out.

Here’s Joseph as a young adult now about to face another phase in life where he is about to experience the unknown.  Now he has to learn another new culture, the life of an inmate.  Innocence or guilt is irrelevant at this point because his master has passed judgment.  Now he must quickly and accurately read the other inmates to determine who he can and cannot talk to which requires that he stay to himself initially and become a keen watchmen, determining the hierarchy level, who the "shot caller" is, etc.  Because he is a man of integrity respecting other people’s property and talking about the stuff that happens behind “the wall” isn’t an issue, but he has to remember that snitching in this environment can get him “kilt”.  His resolve to “keep goin, keep goin, keep goin, keep goin” releases God’s favor in his life yet again.  Before you know it he was in charge of the entire jail (like a 21^st century jail house Trustee but magnified by 200,000) and God blessed every cotton pickin’ thing Joseph as the “slave prisoner” was in charge of.   

This is a great place to stop because I’m out of time.  We will pick it back up tomorrow.

In His Excellent Service

Tania not Tanya

Forgiveness Pt. 5: If Looks Could Kill

We ended the series on Forgiveness with Pt. 4: Murder was the case with Rueben the eldest sibling who appeased the other nine brothers by suggesting that they throw Joseph in the pit (dry well) where he would die without them actually murdering him as they initially wanted to do.  He probably felt confident that while he left the nine at camp and Joseph in the pit it would give the nine time to cool off and teach Joseph a lesson on his perceived obnoxious behavior.  His plan to secretly free Joseph when he returned from the business that caused him to leave the group was admirable but the problem was that his timing was off.    Joseph was led to Egypt as a slave after being sold by the nine, all of whom were envious of his relationship with their father, Israel, with the exception of the eldest Rueben.  As treacherous as these brothers were, it is puzzling as to why Rueben didn’t demand that they go after Joseph.  Instead to cover their devious behavior they created a master lie that Joseph must have been ripped to pieces based on the circumstantial evidence presented to their father– the custom made coat of many colors he designed for Joseph.  If you want more insight or want to catch up on the previous blogs you can visit my blog page: http://dailyflicker.blogspot.com. 

Tania Not Tanya Nugget:  When God speaks or gives a directive, it is essential that we act when he says regardless to whether you fully understand, agree or know what to do.  God rarely gives all of the details related to the assignment, instead he opts to give us information on an as needed basis.  He does so by giving you directives as you go, not before and as you carry out the assignment you start to connect the dots as things become clearer.  Mastering God’s timing is more detrimental than you can imagine including the fact that God is NOT obligated to give you a second chance for that particular assignment.  God doesn’t need us, he chooses us for his good pleasure and while I will not pretend to know the mind of God what I can say from experience is that when we obey God he: 1) rewards us (not necessarily with money but it can definitely be a part of the reward); 2) we grow in our faith which is invaluable; and 3) if others are involved in our assignment they are blessed.  It’s a win, win, win all the way around.  However, if we punk out (e.g. doubt God, wear the muzzle of fear like a banner of honor, second guess him and/or our abilities, engage in pity parties – ours and other peoples) we initiate self-inflicted defeat.  God loves us too much to allow us to fail.

Let’s pick up with young 17 year old Joseph and the sequence of events that happened after he was forced from his family and homeland.  Time will not allow us to fully dissect Genesis 39 which tells the story, so I will paraphrase the events to give a brief overview: 1) Joseph was sold to Potiphar an Egyptian Officer for Pharaoh, the king of Egypt; 2) God’s favor was over Joseph’s life even in what appeared to be madness – part of that favor was quickly learning the language and customs, not to fit in but to survive; 3) God caused Potiphar to favor Joseph (not in a sick lustful way, I would imagine more as a father figure.  How can I be so sure? Because Genesis 39:2 says: God’s favor was over Joseph); 4) he was allowed to live in Potiphar’s house (the custom was for slaves to sleep in slave quarters); 5) he became Potiphar’s personal aide I am sure in part because of Joseph’s attention to detail, excellence, his desire to please, integrity, dependability, trustworthiness, etc. all of the characteristics his brothers despised; 6) he excelled so quickly and well that Potiphar put Joseph in charge of his entire household, he was the shot caller as a young slave; 6) from that point on the blessing of God reigned over Potiphar’s household, EVERTHING Potiphar owned: money, investments, property, crops, etc.

You cannot pay for God’s favor and even though Joseph was a slave in a foreign country God’s hand was over Joseph’s life (in the middle of this storm he had it made while in this unfamiliar territory).  He was protected, well cared for, in a leadership position and he is mature enough to handle all of this, including the psychological trauma of being sold into slavery.  I can imagine that the temptation to press “rewind” at night, during festivals, celebrations, Potiphar’s family gatherings etc. may have been challenging.  Joseph was a real person with real emotions but he was handpicked by God for this assignment and was equipped with everything he needed to do the job with excellence.  It is remarkable to me that even while Joseph is a slave, he gives nothing but excellence.

 

Genesis 39:6-7:  Joseph was FINE!!!!! He wasn’t cute or handsome, he was strikingly handsome. snap, a cougar (older woman who wants a younger man).  This kitty cat was on Joseph’s line -- had the hot’s for Joseph.  I can imagine her looking at him lustfully; making excuses to go in his space or have him come to hers; giggling like an innocent school girl at things that weren’t funny or over-laughing at things that were; tricking herself into thinking that Joseph wanted to get on her line, etc.  She finally made her move and demanded that he have sex with her. 

Unbeknownst to Joseph and Potiphar, Potiphar’s wife was an OG

He wouldn’t do it. He said to his master’s wife, “Look, with me here, my master doesn’t give a second thought to anything that goes on here—he’s put me in charge of everything he owns. He treats me as an equal. The only thing he hasn’t turned over to me is you. You’re his wife, after all! How could I violate his trust and sin against God?” She pestered him day after day after day, but he stood his ground. He refused to go to bed with her.  Genesis 39:8-10 (The Message)

She was a tenacious woman and refused to take no for an answer so she pestered him every day, day after day and each time he refused.  He found as many ways as he could to avoid her, but there were times when he had to be in her presence.  On one of these days he came to the house to do his work and none of the household servants were there. She grabbed him by his coat and said: “SLEEP WITH ME!” He ran out of his coat and out of the house and left her standing there looking like an absolute idiot. When she realized that he had left his coat in her hand and run outside, she called to her house servants: ““Look—this Hebrew shows up and before you know it he’s trying to seduce us. He tried to rape to me but I yelled as loud as I could. With all my yelling and screaming, he left his coat beside me here and ran outside.”  Genesis 39:11-15 (emphasis added).

I realize there is a school of thought which believes it is challenging for our youth to live as virgins until they are married (which is God’s perfect plan no matter how unpopular it is in the 21^st Century).  But Joseph is a clear example of living a pure and sanctified life (not by what he wears on the outside but how he is dressed on the inside with integrity, obedience to God and self-respect).  He has no youth pastor, youth rallies, YouTube, FB, Twitter, Instagram, bible or anyone to encourage him.  He is a slave in a foreign country, sold out by his own relatives, with nobody to physically encourage him except God his father, which is not bad at all, but imagine his state of mind.  He is possibly 18 or 19 by now full of testosterone on overdrive and he turns down the opportunity thrown at him by an OG Snap who’s on his line like a cat in heat.  It’s the perfect set up because he had no mother figure in his life as he grew up motherless because his mom died giving birth to his younger brother, Benjamin when he was probably a toddler.  For real??  God you allowed him to be tempted like that?  Yes because he knew Joseph’s character and that he was equipped to pass that test, which means that you young and older men can pass that same type of test.  I don’t wanna make this about Mrs. Potiphar, but she is so insignificant that we don’t even know her name and since she was so bold, I have a feeling Joseph was not her first victim.

When Potiphar got home she was beside herself with grief, shame and humiliation, not for the

reasons Potiphar assumed, but because Joseph turned her down and probably made her feel like the old fool she was.  I can hear her in her mind saying:  “how dare that little Hebrew boy insult me, obviously he forgot I'm Mrs. Potiphar, well you gone learn “tah-day” sweetie, you don’t tell me no.”  As she recounted the story she probably cried real tears because she was really "hot" now, hotter than fish grease that this slave boy turned her down. After hearing her story Potiphar probably demanded Joseph and the entire household appear before him, and then he no doubt lit Joseph up like fireworks in July as he cussed, ranted and raved about Joseph betraying him, etc. humiliating him even further and then threw him in jail immediately, the jail he ran with no questions asked.  I can just see Mrs. Potophar in my mind with her mouth curled up in a devious snarl as the corners of her mouth dripped with revenge (like his brothers when they sold him into slavery for no reason other than being uniquely created for God's special assignments). Baby, if looks could kill Joseph would have died 10 deaths that day.   WAIT A MINUTE!!  Who throws a slave in jail?  Joseph wasn’t an Egyptian citizen he was a slave.  Potiphar would have had every right to castrate, torture, whip, and then kill Joseph, but he threw him in jail, the jail he managed.  I'm sure everybody at that house walked away from that scene scratching their heads in confusion, including Potiphar.  Who does that?

This is a great place to stop because I’m out of time.  We will pick it back up tomorrow.

In His Excellent Service

Tania not Tanya