Genesis 40:6

When Joseph came to them in the morning, he saw that they were distraught.

Study Bible

When Joseph came to them in the morning
This phrase sets the scene for the unfolding events in the prison where Joseph was held. The morning signifies a new beginning, a time when God's mercies are renewed (Lamentations 3:22-23). Joseph, despite his own trials, rises to fulfill his duties. The Hebrew root for "came" (בּוֹא, bo) implies an intentional action, suggesting Joseph's diligence and faithfulness even in captivity. His presence in the morning reflects his readiness to serve and his trust in God's timing.

he saw
The Hebrew word for "saw" (רָאָה, ra'ah) indicates more than just physical sight; it implies perception and understanding. Joseph's ability to discern the emotional state of the prisoners highlights his empathy and wisdom. This insight is a gift from God, enabling him to minister to others even in his own distress. It foreshadows his future role as a leader who will interpret dreams and guide a nation.

that they were distraught
The word "distraught" captures the emotional turmoil of the cupbearer and the baker. In Hebrew, the root word (זָעַף, za'aph) conveys a sense of agitation or anger. This emotional state is significant as it sets the stage for Joseph's interaction with them, leading to the interpretation of their dreams. Historically, dreams were considered messages from the divine, and their troubled state indicates the weight of these dreams. Joseph's response to their distress demonstrates his compassion and his reliance on God for wisdom, pointing to the greater narrative of God's providence and Joseph's rise to prominence.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joseph
A Hebrew man sold into slavery by his brothers, now serving in the house of Potiphar in Egypt. He is known for his ability to interpret dreams, a gift from God.

2. The Cupbearer and the Baker
Two officials of Pharaoh who were imprisoned with Joseph. They each had a dream that troubled them, which Joseph noticed.

3. The Prison
The setting of this event, where Joseph was held after being falsely accused by Potiphar's wife. It is a place of testing and divine appointment for Joseph.

4. Pharaoh
The ruler of Egypt, whose officials, the cupbearer and the baker, were imprisoned.

5. Dreams
Significant in this account as they are the means through which God communicates future events to Joseph and the officials.

Teaching Points

God's Presence in Trials
Joseph's ability to notice the distress of others, even in his own difficult circumstances, shows God's presence and purpose in trials.

Compassion and Service
Joseph's concern for the cupbearer and baker teaches us to be compassionate and serve others, regardless of our own situation.

Divine Appointments
God orchestrates events and places us in specific situations for His purposes, as seen in Joseph's life.

Faithfulness in Small Things
Joseph's faithfulness in prison prepares him for greater responsibilities, reminding us to be faithful in all circumstances.

God's Sovereignty
The account underscores God's control over all events, including dreams and their interpretations.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Joseph's response to the cupbearer and baker's distress demonstrate his character and faith in God?

2. In what ways can we be attentive to the needs of others, even when we are facing our own challenges?

3. How does Joseph's account encourage us to trust in God's timing and sovereignty, especially when we are in difficult situations?

4. What are some practical ways we can serve others in our "prisons" or challenging circumstances?

5. How do the dreams in Genesis 40 connect to other instances in the Bible where God uses dreams to communicate His will? How can this understanding impact our view of God's communication today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 37
Joseph's earlier dreams about his family bowing to him, which set the stage for his journey to Egypt.

Daniel 2
Daniel's interpretation of King Nebuchadnezzar's dream, showing a parallel in how God uses dreams to reveal His plans.

Acts 16
Paul and Silas in prison, highlighting how God uses imprisonment for His purposes and the spread of the Gospel.