The name says it all.
He said, “Yes, God has made me fruitful in the land where I was afflicted.” (Genesis 41:52b)
Biblical names are often meaningful. The name “Jesus” in Greek and “Joshua” in Hebrew means “The Lord saves.” Fitting name. Jesus does save and has saved. God also changed names like Abram to Abraham, or Jacob to Israel. The names of Jacob’s sons also came from their mothers as expressions of the conditions at the time of their births. It is quite interesting.
Let us consider this one from Genesis 41. Joseph was in Egypt. His jealous brothers had sold him as a slave. However, his fortune turned for the better. After interpreting Pharaoh’s dreams, he was made second in command in the country. He led the food collection during the seven years of plenty. He was also given a wife. That union was blessed with two sons.
Joseph named the firstborn Manasseh because “God has made me forget all my trouble and all my father’s house.” (verse 51) The name he gave his son reflected how he felt. His brothers had totally rejected him. That situation was all forgotten. They were history as far as Joseph was concerned.
He named the second son Ephraim. That name reflects a change. He understood some important truths about God’s leading and guiding. Being a slave was not pleasant. But Joseph never lost his faith in God. Even when he was falsely accused and then forgotten by a guy whom he had helped, God was still at work. Now, during the years of plenty, Joseph confessed his thankfulness in the way in which he named his younger son.
Look at your own life and situation. Remember the different situations you were in. The problems you faced. The fears that led to troubled sleep. You might be facing them still. I know that for me, God worked out my life like he did for Joseph. “Yes, God has made me fruitful in the land where I was afflicted.” I hope that you are in that same condition. If not, remember that the same Lord who worked everything out for Joseph is the same God who is with you. His name assures us that he saves.
Prayer: Lord, lead me to see you at work in my life. Help me in my struggles with my problems and worries. Give me the confidence that Joseph had, and lead me to be thankful for your blessings. Amen.