"IN WHOM IS THE SPIRIT OF GOD!"

Genesis 41:37-41                 (ESV)

"37 This proposal pleased Pharaoh and all his servants.

38 And Pharaoh said to his servants, "Can we find a man like this, "IN WHOM IS THE SPIRIT OF GOD?"

39 Then Pharaoh said to Joseph, "Since GOD has shown you all this, there is none so discerning and wise as you are.

40 You shall be over my house, and all my people shall order themselves as you command. Only as regards the throne will I be greater than you."

41 And Pharaoh said to Joseph, "See, I have set you over all the land of Egypt."

42 Then Pharaoh took his signet ring from his hand and put it on Joseph's hand, and clothed him in garments of fine linen and put a gold chain about his neck.

43 And he made him ride in his second chariot. And they called out before him, "Bow the knee!" Thus he set him over all the land of Egypt.

44 Moreover, Pharaoh said to Joseph, "I am Pharaoh, and without your consent no one shall lift up hand or foot in all the land of Egypt."

Joseph had been imprisoned for basically following GOD's law.  For two years he was unjustly confined with criminals.  The only thing he was guilty of was upholding the integrity and beliefs of his faith.  He would not do as most young men would have done with Potiphar's wife, and was imprisoned because of his lifestyle of faithfulness.  He kept living for GOD even during the lean times. 

There was something unmistakable about Joseph.  Why would Pharaoh listen to Joseph's interpretation of his dream when others who were known for their sorcery and witchcraft could come up with nothing?  Could it be that GOD prevented the magicians from having relevant thoughts regarding the dream or its meaning?  Could GOD really be that ALL-KNOWING and PROVIDENTIAL? JESUS seemed to answer these questions in Mark 10:27 when HE said "With man it is impossible, but not with GOD. For ALL things are POSSIBLE with GOD."  In Genesis 41:18 the Bible says "Joseph answered Pharaoh, "It is not in me; GOD will give Pharaoh a favorable answer."  GOD can do things beyond belief and description!  

"IN WHOM IS THE SPIRIT OF GOD" should be the desire of every believer!  There have been people in my life who have exhibited the undeniable traits of the SPIRIT OF GOD in my surroundings.  There is no disputing the aura, or presence, these people displayed in their lives! The SPIRIT OF GOD was not on their lives because they were worthy, rather because they welcomed HIM!   Most people are too prideful, hateful, or mean spirited to allow the SPIRIT OF GOD to dwell in their bodies.  But even though Joseph had been unjustly imprisoned for two years, he exhibited GODLY traits that elevated him to Pharaoh's second in command.  

The thing we must not overlook is that Joseph was not elevated because of his looks, his stature, his wealth, nor any other characteristic that man deems important.  Joseph was where he needed to be in GOD's plan, exactly WHEN he needed to be there!  Had he been released from prison early, his path would not have intersected with the cupbearer of Pharaoh.  GOD had a plan and Joseph was faithful to submit to that plan!  I pray that others will see my life, no matter my circumstances, and testify "IN WHOM IS THE SPIRIT OF GOD" when they see me!