But if anybody does sin, we have an advocate with the Father —
Jesus Christ, the Righteous One.
I John 2:2a
Advocate: (noun) a person who pleads for or in behalf of another; intercessor.
Advocate: (verb) to speak or write in favor of; support or urge by argument; recommend publicly.
The word advocate has soothed my soul over recent months during a prolonged season of waiting.
Recently my husband discovered a job posted by the CEO of a facility where a good friend of his works.
Ah. An advocate on the inside.
Taking my husband’s resume in hand, the advocate brought it to the CEO’s attention directly, stood at her desk and spoke in his favor.
Whether or not a job will result remains tucked away in the mind of God (stay tuned). But the point is my husband had an advocate, someone who came between him and the intended audience who represented him well.
Makes me think of Joseph. When wrongfully accused by Potiphar’s wife, he was placed in custody and held in the place where the king’s prisoners are held (Genesis 39:20). Some time later (how long, I beg to know), the chief cupbearer and chief baker were added to the mix for having offended Pharaoh.
Following Joseph’s favorable interpretation of the cupbearer’s disturbing dream, Joseph capitalized on an opportunity to get bounced and created an advocate out of the cupbearer:
But when all goes well with you, remember me and show me kindness; mention me to Pharaoh and get me out of this prison. Genesis 40:14a
Clearly, Joseph wasn’t enjoying his extended stay.
Only three days in, the cupbearer and chief baker were released.
“Okay, advocate, do your thing,” Joseph must have thought…waiting.
And waiting.
Still more waiting.
But…The chief cupbearer, however, did not remember Joseph; he forgot him. Genesis 40:23
It wasn’t until… two full two years had passed…the cupbearer, likely nudged by the Spirit…had a holy mental awakening.
“Today I am reminded of my shortcomings.” Genesis 41:9
About time.
Now, given that God is always on time and wholly sovereign, it wasn’t His plan for the cupbearer to remember Joseph any sooner.
But when it seems there is no one on either side of a situation who either can or will speak for me, I always, always have an advocate in Jesus Who goes before the Father on my behalf.
~But if anybody does sin, we have an advocate with the Father — Jesus Christ, the Righteous One. He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours but also for the sins of the whole world. I John 2:2
~Even now my witness is in heaven; my advocate is on high. Job 16:19
~And I will ask the Father and He will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever. — John 14:16
All along, Joseph had a far better advocate than the absent-minded cupbearer. The presence of the living God was with him during his captivity. Even granted him favor and success in all he did. (Genesis 39:20-21)
Who doesn’t want to know there’s someone on the other side of a situation who will be faithful to intervene? To care equally about a situation that concerns her?
There is no better advocate than One Who is always there, always interceding, graciously holding me in high honor, despite my sin.
Humanly speaking, do you have an advocate who fights for you, speaks on your behalf? If so, please share!
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