And Pharaoh said to Joseph, "I have dreamed a dream, and there is no interpreter for it, but I have heard it said of you that you understand a dream, to interpret it." And Joseph replied to Pharaoh, saying, "Not I; God will give an answer that will bring peace to Pharaoh." (Bereishit 41:15 &16)

Rashi explains: The wisdom is not mine, but God will answer. He will put an answer into my mouth that will bring peace to Pharaoh. (from Targum Onkelos)

Then Pharaoh said to Joseph, "Since God has let you know all this, there is no one as understanding and wise as you. You shall be appointed over my household, and through your command all my people shall be nourished; only with the throne will I be greater than you." (Bereishit 41:39 & 40)

Why would the powerful Pharaoh give such a lofty position to Joseph who was a foreigner, youth, slave, and Jew who the Egyptians despised? Was it only because he had the power to determine dreams? What quality did Pharaoh see in Joseph?

The Bali Musser explain to us it was Joseph's selflessness which gave him favor in Pharaoh's eyes. When Joseph took no credit for himself and attributed his wisdom to Hashem, Pharaoh saw that he was fitting to be a king. Selfless service to the Creator with true humility and no interest in personal gain can only be found in those who have truly developed themselves. Everyone can rely and trust a leader who embodies such a pure heart.