Now therefore let Pharaoh select a discerning and wise man, and set him over the land of Egypt. Let Pharaoh proceed to appoint overseers over the land and take one-fifth of the produce of the land of Egypt during the seven plentiful years. And let them gather all the food of these good years that are coming and store up grain under the authority of Pharaoh for food in the cities, and let them keep it. That food shall be a reserve for the land against the seven years of famine that are to occur in the land of Egypt, so that the land may not perish through the famine.”

Genesis 41: 33-36

For those who first saw Joseph rise to prominence as the Prime Minister of Egypt, he must have appeared as an overnight success.

Yes, Scripture has described Joseph as an intelligent, spiritual and a physically attractive young man. He had everything going for him, but, over a period of thirteen years or so, he was sold as a slave, the he first achieved success as he learned how to manage Potiphar’s household effectively. Then he was falsely accused and placed in the pit where God blessed him as he developed his skills as an administrator of the prison.

All along the way the Lord was preparing Joseph whether he was aware or not. So after God gave him the interpretation of Pharoah’s dreams, he was able to present an on-the-spot strategy for thriving during the seven years of famine.

Pharaoh and his servants approved of the plan and then the king said, ““Since God has shown you all this, there is none so discerning and wise as you are. 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.” And Pharaoh said to Joseph, “See, I have set you over all the land of Egypt.” 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. 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” (Genesis 41:39-43).

If you just scanned that last portion of Scripture, take another look and consider the triumph Joseph must have been feeling in the moment. All of the years of pain were worth it and he could look back and see God’s hand in his life each step of the way.

Think about the challenges you’re facing today. Could it be that God is preparing you for something more? Are you receptive to the lessons of life – the school of hard knocks?

It is worth considering, don’t you think?