Bible Reading: Genesis 40 | John 12 | Psalm 40
Devotional for February 25, 2025
Reading: Genesis 40 | John 12 | Psalm 40
Download the PDF edition
Genesis 40
Genesis 40 picks up the story that started in Ch. 39. In the previous chapter, Joseph was falsely accused of impropriety by Potiphar's wife. That accusation landed him in prison. The irony, of course, is that Potiphar once trusted Joseph as his employer, but now, he is his jailor. This chapter sets the stage for Joseph's appearance before Pharaoh by highlighting one of God's principal gifts. The LORD would use that gift to rescue a people from famine.
The gift, of course, is the ability to interpret dreams. We were first introduced to that ability in Ch. 37. In this chapter, Joseph interprets the dreams of two men who were part of the inner circle of the king of Egypt. The first man was the chief cupbearer, relieved to be told that his dream meant that he would be restored to his place in Pharaoh's court. The second man, the chief baker, was discouraged to learn that his dream foretold his death.
When the chief cupbearer learned the good news, Joseph asked him to "remember me, when it is well with you, and please do me the kindness to mention me to Pharaoh, and get me out of this house (40:14). But, as we shall see in the next chapter, Joseph was forgotten.
John 12
John 12 has two critical sections. The first is the account of the anointing of Jesus by Mary (12:1-11). It is an account of preparation for what will soon occur in Christ's life. The second section (12:20-50) highlights the rejection of Christ by the Jews. The opening verses of this section describe the brief discourse Jesus tells regarding his impending death and his expectations for those who will follow him. Note what Jesus says, "If anyone serves me, he must follow me; and where I am, there will my servant be also. Of course, there is a cost to follow Christ. For some, it means martyrdom (which is what happens to most of the apostles). However, following Christ is more than a mere profession. It includes obedience to him.
Jesus describes in great detail his desire to obey the will of his Father. As a result of his words, the Jews seek to kill the Savior, filled with unbelief. The response of rejection is contrasted with events that occurred earlier in the chapter (12:12-19). The hardness of man's heart is on full display as they purpose to reject and kill the light of the world.
Psalm 40
Psalm 40 is a Psalm of thanksgiving reflecting on God's kindness to the Psalmist for past deliverances (40:1-10). It is also a plea for help regarding a new issue or concern (40:11-17).
40:1-10
Whatever the circumstances were, David was thankful for God's kindness in hearing his prayers and relieving him of the struggle. This section highlights David's response to God's kindness.
He reflects on the Lord's willingness to hear his prayers (40:1). We sometimes take that for granted.
He reflects on the way God delivered him. David uses word pictures, but the point is the same. We should reflect often on the many ways God has preserved our lives. (40:2)
He praises God with song, leading others to praise God. Praise is infectious. (40:3)
He reflects on the confidence one can have when trusting the Lord. (40:4). Other support will fail, but the Lord will never abandon his children.
He proclaims the deliverance he has received to others (40:5)
40:11-17
The first section sets the stage for this one, where David sets a new problem and concern before the Lord, but he is confident that he will be heard and delivered from the efforts of evil people.