We have reached a turning point in the story. Joseph is operating in his gift. He has access to Pharaoh and is interpreting dreams. He has been waiting for the opportunity to break free from his past, and now he is not only exercising wisdom and discernment but also boldly declaring the truth about what will happen. It is God who has made these things known to Joseph. His wisdom and power are connected to the Spirit of God.

In verse 33, we see Joseph identify a need for Pharaoh. Ironically, it is Joseph who will ultimately fulfill that need. He spoke it before he saw it come to pass. Our words hold power. Sometimes, in our waiting, we speak out of fear, stress, and fatigue. We must be mindful of our words and choose wisdom. Wisdom begins with fearing the Lord. He reigns above all.

A few years ago, I found myself between jobs. I kept searching, but nothing was changing. I wasn’t pastoring at the time, and I was growing exhausted in the waiting. I found myself asking questions like, “Will I ever work in a church again?” “Will I ever preach or pastor again?” “God, are we finished?”

As I navigated this wide range of emotions and questions, I remember a friend telling me, “Be careful what you name this season. You are in transition; your story isn’t over.”

Yes, you’ve been waiting a long time for God to move. Yes, waiting has required patience. But your words matter in this season. God knows what He will do and what He has already decided for your life. We must also decide how to shape our perspective and outlook.

Life and death are in the power of the tongue. It’s not over until God says it’s over. He does not delay. He will keep His Word. So may we not only declare His promises with our mouths but also stand on them with our lives.

Reflect and respond: Identify truths and promises in scripture about God’s character. Sit with these words. Write them down. Memorize them. Recite them over yourself.