9 So the chief cupbearer told his dream to Joseph, and said to him, “In my dream there was a grapevine in front of me; 10 and on the vine were three branches. Then as soon as it budded, its blossoms burst open, and its clusters produced ripe grapes [in rapid succession]. 11 Now Pharaoh’s cup was in my hand, and I took the grapes and squeezed them into Pharaoh’s cup; then I placed the cup into Pharaoh’s hand.”

12 Then Joseph said to him, “This is the interpretation of it: the three branches represent three days; 13 within three more days Pharaoh will lift up your head (present you in public) and restore you to your position; and you will [again] put Pharaoh’s cup into his hand just as [you did] when you were his cupbearer. 14 Only think of me when it goes well with you, and please show me kindness by mentioning me to Pharaoh and get me out of this house. 15 For in fact I was taken (stolen) from the land of the Hebrews by [unlawful] force, and even here I have done nothing for which they should put me in the dungeon.”

Genesis 40:9-15 (AMP)

In prison

We know that Joseph is in prison – for nothing he’s done wrong. God is blessing him even in prison. We saw yesterday how he has a certain degree of freedom and responsibility. This provides the opportunity for him to notice the baker and cupbearer are dejected so he, in a very caring manner, asks them what’s up.

Cupbearer’s dream

So the cupbearer goes first to tell his dream – hoping Joseph can interpret it. And hoping for a positive interpretation. Joseph already explained that he has no special ability – that all “interpretations belong to God” (v8).

The cupbearer’s dream is, not surprisingly, about his normal life serving the Pharaoh wine and being his confidant. It starts out good with three vines that bud and produce luscious grapes. It ends well with him serving the wine to Pharaoh as he used to.

Interpretation – restoration

Joseph immediately has an interpretation. This dream did not have as obvious an interpretation as his own dream earlier regarding his future in relation to his family. He uses his God-given gift of interpretation to pronounce that the cupbearer will be restored to his position in 3 days. Exactly what the cupbearer wanted to hear!

The proof will be in its fulfillment. Now, onto the baker’s dream tomorrow. Will his also turn out well?

RЯeflection

• Joseph keeps a positive spirit and outlook in the midst of this unfair situation. His only hope is the dreams he had previously that someday he will be in a position of authority such that he will even rule over his family. How do we bear with difficult times? “For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory that is to be revealed to us.” (Romans 8:18)
• Do you have dreams that seem to have spiritual significance? Surely God can speak to us through dreams. We just need to be cautious. Check out this article for more guidance.