Genesis 41:15-16 Pharaoh said to Joseph, “I had a dream, and no one can interpret it. But I have heard it said of you that when you hear a dream you can interpret it.” Joseph replied to Pharaoh, “I cannot do it, but God will give Pharaoh the answer he desires.”
Is our individuality, our personhood actually the result of our education, training and accomplishment? Are we born with the skills we have as adults or have they been nurtured in us by parents, employers or others? The answer to this question is important. If we answer yes, that we are “self-made” people then there is much that we can do, accomplish and control in our lives. Because of these skills and abilities we can determine the outcome of many of life’s circumstances. We can be smart enough to fix our own mistakes. Other people could be taught by us and equipped with the same information and skills that we have. We can thereby multiply the number of talented people in the world.
If, however, the answer is no, then where do these abilities, talents and skills come from? The story of Joseph shows us that much of who we are is conditioned by our God. His ability to interpret dreams was God given. He acknowledges that it was not “his” interpretation but God’s when he spoke to Pharaoh. God made Joseph able to know what the dream meant. Even before the dreams interpretation, Joseph’s ability to lead and manage the household affairs of Potiphar as well as oversee the prisoners for the Captain of the Guard, reveals much about God’s gifting of Joseph. He was only seventeen when he was sold into slavery by his brothers. He was a shepherd before that day. God worked miracles in Joseph that equipped him for every task and life circumstance that came his way.
When you feel inadequate in your skills or education, know that they are being used by God to equip you for his plan. Pray to Him who knows all subjects to enlighten, equip and sustain you for His service. It’s not how much you know that brings success, but it is Who you know that brings victory.
