The Chicago Cubs developed a reputation as lovable losers until finally winning the World Series after 108 years in 2016. The perfect example of their many years of frustration was their game on May 17, 1979, against the Phillies. Philadelphia led the Cubs by seven runs before they even came to bat. The Cubs swung away, down 21-9, and finally tied the score 22-22 in the 8th inning.

 Genesis 40 – God’s Training Program

Joseph was a slave/prisoner for 13 years. He was 17 when he was sold into Egypt and 30 when he was made prime minister. It seemed like a long time for a proud, intelligent young man to waste in captivity, but it was God’s training program for him. Joseph failed in his effort to help himself escape. He would be released only in God’s time.

God gave Joseph the interpretations of the dreams that could finally help him get released. Still, the cupbearer who oversaw the king’s land had forgotten him (Genesis 40:23). Humanly speaking, Joseph had no hope. Yet, God had not forgotten him. Though he was likely discouraged in his humble circumstances, his promotion finally came from God (Psalm 75:6-7). Self-help is often counterproductive. Be content with your calling in life, and God will exalt you in His way and time!

The Kingdom Coach and Athlete turn to God and wait on Him rather than turning to the world for help. “Put not your trust in princes, in a son of man, in whom there is no salvation.… Blessed is he whose help is the God of Jacob, whose hope is in the Lord his God, who made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that is in them, who keeps faith forever” (Ps. 146:3, 5–6).

Bible Memory Verse – “And Yahweh was with Joseph, so he became a successful man. And he was in the house of his master, the Egyptian. Now his master saw that Yahweh was with him and how Yahweh caused all that he did to succeed in his hand.” Genesis 39:2-3 (LSB)