Matthew Henry Commentary Genesis 40:20-23

"And it came to pass the third day, which was Pharaoh`s birthday, that he made a feast unto all his servants: and he lifted up the head of the chief butler and the head of the chief baker among his servants. And he restored the chief butler unto his butlership again; and he gave the cup into Pharaoh`s hand: but he hanged the chief baker: as Joseph had interpreted to them. Yet did not the chief butler remember Joseph, but forgat him." — Genesis 40:20-23 (ASV)

Joseph's interpretation of the dreams came to pass on the very day fixed. On Pharaoh's birthday, all his servants attended him, and then the cases of these two came to be examined.

We may all profitably consider our birthdays, with thankfulness for the mercies of our birth, sorrow for the sinfulness of our lives, and an expectation of the day of our death as better than the day of our birth. Yet, it seems strange that worldly people, who are so fond of living here, should rejoice at the passing of one year after another of their short lifespan.

A Christian, however, has cause to rejoice not only that he was born, but also that he draws nearer to the end of his sin and sorrow, and nearer to his everlasting happiness.

The chief butler did not remember Joseph, but forgot him. Joseph had deserved well from him, yet he forgot him. We must not think it strange if, in this world, we are shown hatred for our love and slights for our kindness.

See how apt those who are themselves at ease are to forget others in distress. Joseph learned by his disappointment to trust in God only. We cannot expect too little from man, nor too much from God. Let us not forget the sufferings, promises, and love of our Redeemer. We blame the chief butler's ingratitude to Joseph, yet we ourselves act much more ungratefully to the Lord Jesus.

Joseph had only foretold the chief butler's release, but Christ accomplished ours; He mediated with the King of Kings for us. Yet we forget Him, though often reminded of Him, and though we have promised never to forget Him. Thus poorly do we requite Him, like foolish people and unwise.