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Beginning of the End - Ellen G. White

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Joseph in Prison

But Joseph's real character shone even in the dungeon. His

years of faithful service had been most cruelly repaid, yet this did

not turn him gloomy or make him distrustful. He had peace and

trusted his case with God. He did not brood over his own wrongs but

forgot his sorrow in trying to lighten the sorrows of others. He found

a work to do, even in the prison. God was preparing him in the

school of affliction for greater usefulness, and he did not refuse the

needed discipline. He learned lessons of justice, sympathy, and

mercy that prepared him to exercise power with wisdom and

compassion.

Joseph gradually gained the confidence of the keeper of the

prison, who finally entrusted him with the charge of all the

prisoners. His conduct in the prison--his integrity and his sympathy

for those in trouble and distress--opened the way for his future

prosperity and honor. If prompted by a right motive, every kind

word spoken to the sorrowful, every act to relieve the oppressed,

and every gift to the needy, will result in blessings to the giver.

The king's chief baker and chief butler had been imprisoned for

some offense, and they came under Joseph's responsibility. One

morning, noting that they appeared very sad, he kindly inquired the

cause and was told that each had had a remarkable dream, and they

were anxious to learn the meaning. "Do not interpretations belong to

God?" said Joseph. "Tell them to me, please."

172

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