Genesis 41:51,52 And Joseph named the first-born Manasseh, “For, he said, God has made me forget all my trouble and all my father’s household.” And he named the second Ephraim, for he said God has made me fruitful in theland of my affliction.
We are witnessing God using Joseph in a manner so high and where he is receiving so much honor, that many would be ruined by it. Most egos couldn’t handle this. Many would let this go to their heads. The wealth was great, the power was nearly supreme and the recognition was the highest in that modern world. Paul says in I Tim 3:6 “do not promote a new convert, lest he become conceited and fall under condemnation incurred by the devil”. This type of high level work can’t be done by anyone. There must be a high level of maturity, amongst other things. This type of maturity comes by suffering hard knocks in life. Joseph’s entire life was guiding him towards this moment. As a youth, he told everyone of his dreams and how all would bow to him. I’m not sure if this was boasting or naivette. It wouldn’t be out of character for a youth to say it boastfully. The brothers didn’t enjoy hearing it. His father, who was the main spoiling agent, also corrected him for speaking thus. So it would appear it was boasing. Joseph had great ability. Whereever he went and whatever task he performed, he received the highest recognition. He also ended up in charge, administrative positions. He had insight to see optimal solutions. If it be how to run a prison or to prepare for a famine, his methods were optimal. All of these things point towards building ego. It would be natural to be highly confident to the point of being cocky. However, the slavery issue and the imprisonment went a long way towards letting Joseph know that He was in God’s hands. The apostle Paul also had great gifts and position, yet he said that “I would rather boast in my weakness” 2 Cor. 12:9.
God wants to use us, but places a high value on humility. He allows life lessons to teach us to be humble. He won’t give us more than we can handle. Lord, give us humilty and use us.