Gen 41:9-14, 9 Then the chief butler spoke to Pharaoh, saying: “I remember my faults this day 10 When Pharaoh was angry with his servants and put me in custody …12 Now there was a young Hebrew man with us there…, and he interpreted our dreams for us; … 13 And it came to pass, just as he interpreted for us,…14 Then Pharaoh sent and called Joseph, and they brought him quickly out of the dungeon
Two years had passed since the butler was released and restored to his former position. This whole time he forgot Joseph’s kindness and request for a good word to the king about himself, this is indeed a form of ingratitude. Jesus healed 10 lepers, only one remembered and came back in gratitude to give thanks.
Before we get on the butler’s case and we should, let’s for a moment imagine. Earlier release by good word would have proven less beneficial to Joseph, his family, and Pharaoh. Perhaps his release could have resulted in being sent back to his own home empty-handed. The timing was perfect, God was in the driver seat. And like a master chess player seeing the end from the beginning, He was calling and making the moves. Though forgotten by men, God had not forgotten him. This serves as a reminder that “Many are the plans in the mind of a man, but it is the purpose of the LORD that will stand” (Pro 19:21). Let us hold on to the God who remembers and acts.