MODEL OF VISIONARY IMPACT (2)

“And Pharaoh said to Joseph, “See, I have set you over all the land of Egypt” – Genesis 41:41

Joseph fulfilled his divine destiny as a MODEL of VISIONARY IMPACT: “And Pharaoh said to Joseph, “See, I have set you over all the land of Egypt” (Gen.41:41). The young man evolved from his private dreams to public manifestation as a visionary leader who interpreted Pharaoh's dreams, revealing seven years of plenty followed by seven years of famine. This vision empowered him to advise Pharaoh on preparing for the famine, ultimately leading to his rise to power in Egypt and his role in ensuring the survival of his family and the people of Egypt. The dreamer of dreams became the visionary, impactful leader!

Joseph’s story began with dream from the Lord at the age of seventeen, which revealed God’s Purpose and Plans for his life (Gen.37:6-7,9). Out of excitement and simple faith, he shared his dreams with dream-killing brothers and bewildered parents. This bold announcement only served to draw his father’s rebuke and his brothers’ growing hatred (Gen.37:8, 10-11). Whatever their reactions were, Joseph had heard from God, and now had a vision for his life, even if it wasn’t received by others.

What is as important as knowing and understanding God’s purpose, is its pursuit. Joseph’s pursuit of purpose and vision kept him on track during extremely tough times and when faced with dire temptation. He maintained his integrity even in the face of immoral enticement and false accusation: “How then can I do this great wickedness and sin against God?” (Gen.39:9). He understood that he was accountable to God and that the fulfillment of his dreams was completely dependent upon God! This dependence on God opened a door that would literally change history and become an even greater display of his character.

The chief butler and the chief baker of the king of Egypt offended their lord, the king of Egypt, who then had them thrown in prison with Joseph. There they both had dreams but no one to interpret them (Gen. 40:1-7). Joseph demonstrated his trust and dependence in the Lord, and offered his gift (Gen. 40:8). The Lord gave Joseph the interpretation, and both came to pass. The butler kept his job; and the baker lost his head, yet the butler said nothing of Joseph for two years. Most people would have given up, but not Joseph; he knew God’s plan would be fulfilled. Then the Pharaoh himself had a dream that all the magicians of Egypt could not interpret. God used this opportunity to take Joseph from rags to riches in one inspired moment.

Joseph interpreted the king’s dream, and divine promotion followed (vv.39-41). Instantly, he received Pharaoh’s signet ring of authority, garments of royalty and gold chain of dignity (vv.42-43). Divine dreams drive the decoration and delivery of Destinies!