Let Someone Else Praise You
Genesis 41:16 (ESV) Joseph answered Pharaoh, “It is not in me; God will give Pharaoh a favorable answer.” The incredible thing about Joseph's rapid ascension to power in Egypt is how little he contributes this his own resume! In our culture we are taught to "put ourselves out there", "put on a good face", or "put your best foot forward." In our day personal ambition is a model virtue as we laud the accomplishments of the overachievers among us. Today's social media frenzy has only exacerbated this mentality. We talk ourselves up in every way possible, even displaying the food we are eating or cooking for others to take notice and "like" in a pixelated self-centered me-fest. But when I read the chapter that changed everything for Joseph I notice one conspicuous absence. He doesn't take credit for anything he's done, nor does he promote himself for the job now necessary for Egypt's well being. Look at the chapter. E...