Genesis 40:23 “Yet the chief cupbearer did not remember Joseph, but forgot him.”
AND FORGOTTEN
Have you ever been used by someone to get what they want? That feels bad enough, but what if they also forgot about you? That’s what happened to Joseph. He had correctly interpreted the cupbearer’s dream, but as soon as he was free from prison and back in his lofty position with Pharaoh, he forgot all about Joseph. He had even seen the baker’s dream come true and still he didn’t mention Joseph.
I am sure, since Joseph was running the prison, he heard about all that was going on in Pharaoh’s palace. Every big dinner would require the cupbearer to be there. I bet Joseph thought he would surely tell Pharaoh about him today. But days, weeks, months and even years went by before his name was mentioned.
TEACHING MOMENT
What is the lesson in all of this? Simple – do what is right regardless of the outcome. Joseph did what was right. He had the gift, through God, to interpret dreams. He used it to help others. Our children need to learn to do the same. If someone has a need which they can meet, they should do it without any thought of payback.
Think of all the Lord has done for us. He doesn’t expect any payback except our love. Children need to be directed in this by their parents. They need to see us doing the same. Our outward expressions of love to Christ and our efforts to come alongside a brother or sister in need speak volumes to them as they develop their own faith walk.
Won’t you do that today? Help your children discover a way in which they can be of service to another. Teach them to give in a way that expects no return. And then celebrate the joy that comes from being obedient to the Lord.
A Moment In Time 