Genesis 41:53-57; Genesis 42:1-8
Whatever the Lord promises will certainly be fulfilled. So it is with Joseph’s words which were in fact those of God Himself. Seven years of great plenty follow, then the famine begins.
God tries all ways to turn the thoughts of men to Himself. That is why in this world, peace follows war, plenty follows privations, and also in the life of every human being, joys follow trials. Alas! men hardly ever think of thanking the Lord for the joys He gives them and they do not usually go to Him either for help in their trials. Nevertheless, just as Pharaoh commanded, "Go unto Joseph," the Spirit of God urges men to turn to the Saviour and He Himself calls, "Come unto me," (Matthew 11:28). Yes, let us go to the One who alone gives abundant nourishment for our souls. And let us also take advantage of times of spiritual plenty, of meetings for example, to fill up the "storehouses" of our memories and our hearts. In moments of need, of loneliness, or of discouragement, what we have thus put in reserve will give us strength and joy in the Lord. Above all let us not forget the end of v. 55, "What he saith to you, do." (compare John 2:5).