GENESIS 39

There is something so beautiful and almost funny about the straightforward relating of events in Genesis 39. First, Joseph is taken into Potiphar’s house. And the Bible says that the Lord was with Joseph, so both Joseph and Potiphar prospered while Joseph was in charge of things. Potiphar didn’t have to worry about anything because “the Lord gave [Joseph] success in everything he did.” (vs 3)

Then, a rather unfortunate turn of events befalls Joseph. Potiphar’s wife tries repeatedly (and unsuccessfully) to seduce Joseph, but Joseph won’t have any of it. He refuses to sleep with her, and even eventually refuses to be in the same room with her. So, Potiphar’s wife cooks up a scheme to get back at Joseph and he ends up being thrown into prison.

And, as if nothing has happened, the Bible narrative continues in just the same manner: “So the warden put Joseph in charge of all those held in the prison, and he was made responsible for all that was done there. The warden paid no attention to anything under Joseph’s care, because the Lord was with Joseph and gave him success in whatever he did.” (vs 22-23)

Joseph had success in whatever he did no matter where he was — whether he was in Potiphar’s house or in jail. God was with him no matter where he went. God was not limited in bringing blessing and success to Joseph. He blessed Joseph as easily in prison as he had in his master’s house.

There’s almost a comical quality behind this. It’s as if God is standing there pouring blessings on Joseph’s head, and well, it doesn’t matter if somebody wants to move Joseph somewhere else, God just swings the blessing bucket around and continues pouring out those blessings on Joseph.

Our vision is so small that it’s difficult for us to see how God is able to work in every circumstance. But God isn’t hindered or hampered by changing situations and circumstances. His blessings are constant. His presence with us is constant. In every way, on every day, He works unhindered!