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“The chief cupbearer, however, did not remember Joseph; he forgot him.” Genesis 40:23 (NIV)

From an empty, dark pit to a lavish palace, Joseph tasted life at its worst and at its best. Abandoned by his brothers. Left to die yet rescued and sold into slavery. Elevated to serve directly under Potiphar. Unjustly accused, Joseph found himself doing time in Pharaoh’s prison. Would the tragic events of his life ever end?

Overlooked, cast aside, rejected – words that often fill our minds. Wonder if those words ever saturated Joseph’s thoughts especially when forgotten echoed in his ears? Joseph had just interpreted the cupbearer’s dream of being restored to his duties in the palace. A favor deserved a favor was the basis of Joseph’s plea. One simple request, “Remember me, show me kindness and mention me to Pharaoh; get me out of this prison.” When morning comes, the cupbearer is released and returned to serve Pharaoh. Life goes on and remembering Joseph is a lost cause.

Forgotten and left in prison, Joseph continued to endure challenge after challenge. What man choose to not remember, God purposed to never forget. He was with Joseph every step of the way. Abandoned in a pit, God was there. Sold into slavery, God was there. Serving in the palace, God was there. Battling temptation, God was there. Unjustly chained in prison, God was there. Forgotten by many yet remembered by One.
Wonder how we would have responded if we walked in Joseph’s shoes even for a day? Have to admit, my attitude would need a major adjustment. Grumbling would definitely spew from my mouth. Loneliness would creep in and depression would cloud my view. Don’t know about you but being punished for something I didn’t do doesn’t set well with me. And then to help someone and simply ask for favor – remember me – can’t say I’d handle that one well.

Two years go by and Joseph is still in prison. Pharaoh has a dream and finally the cup bearer remembers him. Impeccable timing – God’s perfect timing. Chains are released. Promotion comes when Joseph least expected it. He would never be forgotten again.

What’s your story? Has challenge after challenge left you wondering if God has walked away? Do you lay in bed at night and question if He even exists? Sweet friend, Joseph’s life reminds us that regardless of where we go, regardless of who seeks to harm us, regardless of injustices -God is fully aware of our situation. He is always with us. We might be forgotten by many, but sweet friends we will always be remembered by One.

“Father, when forgotten labels my life help me to trust Your plan and cling to Your truths.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life