Genesis 40:14

But think on me when it shall be well with thee, and shew kindness, I pray thee, unto me, and make mention of me unto Pharaoh, and bring me out of this house:

Genesis 40:14 (KJV)

Context

Joseph, the son of Jacob, was favored by his father but hated by his brothers, who sold him into slavery. In Egypt, he was falsely accused and thrown into prison. There he met two of Pharaoh’s officials, the chief butler and the chief baker. Both men had troubling dreams, and Joseph, by God’s gift, interpreted them correctly. The butler’s dream meant he would be restored to his position in three days, while the baker’s dream meant he would be executed.

Meaning

In this verse, Joseph makes a personal request to the chief butler. He asks that when things go well for the butler, he would remember Joseph, show him kindness, mention him to Pharaoh, and bring him out of prison. Joseph does not demand help; he asks with humility and respect. His words show that he still hopes for release and is willing to use lawful means to gain it. He does not wait passively for a miracle, but he also does not rely on his own efforts alone. His request is a practical step taken in dependence on God, who had already revealed through Joseph’s own dreams that a future awaited him.

Biblical connections

Joseph’s plea for remembrance and kindness echoes a pattern seen elsewhere in Scripture. When Nehemiah prayed for God’s favor before speaking to the king, he combined prayer with careful action (Nehemiah 2:4-5). Likewise, Joseph trusts God, yet he also speaks directly to the butler. This shows that faith and responsible action belong together. God often works through human relationships and ordinary means to accomplish His purposes.

Application

Joseph’s example teaches us to persevere in hard times without losing hope. He did not let his unjust suffering make him bitter or passive. Instead, he kept his faith and sought help from others. We can learn to ask for assistance with humility, showing respect to those who may be able to help us. Simple acts of kindness and remembrance can have a lasting impact. When we are in need, we should not be ashamed to make our requests known, while still trusting that God is ultimately in control.

Reflection

Joseph’s request also reminds us that God’s timing is not always our timing. The butler forgot Joseph for two more years, yet God was working behind the scenes. We may not see immediate answers to our prayers, but we can trust that God is faithful. He can bring deliverance in unexpected ways and at the right moment. Our part is to remain hopeful, to act wisely, and to leave the outcome in His hands.