Genesis 39:19-23 And it came to pass, when his master heard the words of his wife, which she spoke to him, saying… I. "GOD WAS WITH JOSEPH" — WHERE? 1. God is no respecter of places. Men speak with bated breath of prison-houses. 2. A sample of God's faithfulness. Potiphar, from very unworthy reasons, had withheld his favour from Joseph. Very likely many in the mansion had secretly rejoiced in Joseph's fall. "He keepeth covenant for ever." II. "GOD WAS WITH HIM."— IN WHAT MANNER? 1. God's best gifts are spiritual. There was no miraculous vindication of Joseph. Yet, though unseen, God was there, with hands full of blessing. Did Joseph retain his hold on God, and often speak to Him in prayer? God nourished that faith. Did Joseph cherish a peaceful assurance, that God would over-rule this disaster for good? Then God was dwelling in him. 2. God gave him mercy, This hardship led Jacob to faithful self-examination. 3. God lightened his burden. The effect of God's presence was twofold, viz., inward and outward. The real worth of Joseph was patent to the governor of the gaol. It was soon felt by warders and prisoners alike that Joseph was an injured man. 4. God made him useful. In that grim gaol his life was not doomed to inglorious idleness. So in the prison Joseph did his very best; nobly exercised his talents; lived as a king: and prepared himself to be ruler of Egypt. There were lessons to be learnt here which he could not learn elsewhere; a good school this. III. "GOD WAS WITH HIM" — WITH WHAT RESULT? 1. There was prosperity. That is, there was order, peacefulness, good discipline. 2. Knowledge was gained. Joseph learnt how little mischief bad men and bad women can do to a good man. 3. It was a stepping-stone to sovereignty. Very likely the advantage in the formation of Joseph's character was immense. Excrescences were pruned away. Good principles were better rooted. A generous forgetfulness of self was fostered. He was daily growing into a nobler and purer man. (J. Dickerson Davies, M. A.) Parallel Verses KJV: And it came to pass, when his master heard the words of his wife, which she spake unto him, saying, After this manner did thy servant to me; that his wrath was kindled. |
    |