“The chief cupbearer, however, did not remember Joseph; he forgot him. … When two full years had passed, Pharaoh had a dream.” Genesis 40:23; 41:1

In the long season of waiting, it can be easy to believe that God has forgotten you. All earnest believers go through times when God seems to be ignoring their requests.

God’s servant Joseph must have felt as if he was forgotten. For two years he was stuck in a prison in Egypt. He was once his father’s favorite, but was sold into slavery by his brothers, carried far away from home, wrongly accused of seducing Potiphar’s wife and thrown into a dungeon. Even the promise of being remembered by Pharoah’s grateful cupbearer fell flat. Though he had the favor of God, he surely desired the warmth and luxury of life outside his prison cell.

Joseph spent two more years waiting.

The Bible doesn’t tell us why God made Joseph wait. Maybe the spoiled boy who was doted on by his father needed to be humbled and given a harsh look at reality in order to be useful. Whatever the reason, God never forgot him and one day exalted him to a position of great power. God put Joseph into authority over all of Egypt. He used Joseph to save His chosen people from disaster. In Joseph’s own words, “God has made me fruitful in the land of my suffering.” (Gen. 41:52)

You may never know why God chooses to make you wait. But just remember that God never forgets about His beloved children. You will never slip his mind. You can trust that He will move at just the right time.

God, I trust You to move when the time is right. Give me the strength to resist discouragement and embrace hope as I wait on You.

Further reading: WHEN PRAYER SEEMS TO FAIL

Take Action

If you are in a season of waiting, reflect back on past events where God has moved in your life. Write down one event where God blessed you and thank Him for what He did. Claim it as proof that God is good and able to do what He has promised.

Connect with a coach for prayer to strengthen your trust in God.

Share a comment. Describe a time you felt God remembered your needs in a special way.