He was assured by the spirit of God, that his interpretation was true.
Historical and theological verse study from Book of Genesis, Chapter 40.
Apply the spiritual lesson of Genesis 40:12 through prayerful reflection and faithful obedience.
“Gracious Father, write the truth of Genesis 40:12 upon my heart by the power of Your Holy Spirit. Amen.”
“Respondit Joseph : Hæc est interpretatio somnii : tres propagines, tres adhuc dies sunt :”
“And Joseph said unto him, This is the interpretation of it: The three branches are three days:”
“Joseph replied, “This is the interpretation: The three branches are three days.”
“Joseph said to him, “This is its interpretation: the three branches are three days.”
“And Joseph said unto him, This is the interpretation of it: the three branches are three days;”
He was assured by the spirit of God, that his interpretation was true.
He was assured by the spirit of God, that his interpretation was true.
Some observe the resemblance between Joseph and Christ in this story. Joseph's fellow-sufferers were like the two thieves that were crucified with Christ—the one saved, the other condemned. (It is Dr. Lightfoot's remark, from Mr. Broughton.) One of these, when Joseph said to him, Remember me when it shall be well with thee, forget him; but one of those, when he said to Christ, Remember me when thou comest into thy kingdom, was not forgotten. We justly blame the chief butler's ingratitude to Joseph, yet we conduct ourselves much more disingenuously towards the Lord Jesus. Joseph had but foretold the chief butler's enlargement, but Christ wrought out ours, mediated with the King of kings for us; yet we forget him, though often reminded of him, though we have promised never to forget him: thus ill do we requite him, like foolish people and unwise.
Verses 1-19 It was not so much the prison that made the butler and baker sad, as their dreams. God has more ways than one to sadden the spirits. Joseph had compassion towards them. Let us be concerned for the sadness of our brethren's countenances. It is often a relief to those that are in trouble to be noticed. Also learn to look into the causes of our own sorrow. Is there a good reason? Is there not comfort sufficient to balance it, whatever it is? Why art thou cast down, O my soul? Joseph was careful to ascribe the glory to God. The chief butler's dream foretold his advancement. The chief baker's dream his death. It was not Joseph's fault that he brought the baker no better tidings. And thus ministers are but interpreters; they cannot make the thing otherwise than it is: if they deal faithfully, and their message prove unpleasing, it is not their fault. Joseph does not reflect upon his brethren that sold him; nor does he reflect on the wrong done him by his mistress and his master, but mildly states his own innocence. When we are called on to clear ourselves, we should carefully avoid, as much as may be, speaking ill of others. Let us be content to prove ourselves innocent, and not upbraid others with their guilt.