INTRODUCTION: At times Joseph must have felt that life made no sense and was totally unfair. No doubt he was tempted to wonder if God cared about his trials. How wonderful then to recall that Joseph's life was a striking example of God's special providence over His people. This should comfort us when life seems out of control.

I. IMPORTANT PRISONERS - verses 1-4.
This prison was a special one where high ranking officials were imprisoned. It seems to have been a part of Potiphar's house [Compare Genesis 40:3 with Genesis 39:1].

Sometime after Joseph had been entrusted with the oversight of prisoners, two of the king's servants were jailed there. We are told nothing concerning the guilt or innocence of these men. What is clear is that the incarceration of these men was part of God's plan. The timing, the dreams, etc., all fit into God's scheme of purpose.

II. THE DREAMS - verse 5.
In former times God sometimes spoke through dreams. The ancient Egyptians were very interested in the interpretation of dreams and these particular dreams were intended by God to make an impression. Had these men been out of prison they would have no doubt consulted a professional dream-interpreter. There were many of these in Egypt.

III. THE INTERPRETER - verses 6-8.
In the morning Joseph noted the sad look on their faces. Hearing of their concern he offered to interpret their dreams. By divine enlightenment he was aware of his prophetic gift.

IV. THE BUTLER'S DREAM - verses 9-15.
After interpreting the dream Joseph asked for consideration in the future. He explained his plight and innocence. He hoped for immediate release from prison. How could he help but be disappointed when the Butler forgot him. Let us remember that if we fully understood God's plan, we would rejoice even in disappointments [I Thessalonians 5:18].

V. THE BAKER'S DREAM - verses 16-19.
The interpretation of this dream helped to confirm that Joseph was truly inspired of God. Maybe these correct interpretations helped confirm his confidence in his own former dreams.

Some have wondered if Joseph felt any compassion on the baker. While he felt pity, yet there is no reason to think that the baker did not deserve his punishment.

VI. FORGOTTEN - verses 20-23.
The butler was probably on "thin ice" with Pharaoh and was afraid to help Joseph. Perhaps he feared to contradict Potiphar's wife. At any rate, the human race is filled with ungrateful people.

Notice two considerations:
A. The butler did not know that his ungrateful behavior would be recorded for posterity. How many like Pilate or Judas could not have guessed their future infamy. Let all remember that one day, all unsaved men will have their lives made known [Revelation 20:12].

B. Joseph was forgotten by the butler, but not by God [Hebrews 13:5-6]. The butler's ingratitude made possible God's time frame. Depravity does not hinder God's sovereign purpose.

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