The Life of Joseph

Part 2: Turn Around

Genesis chapter 39 tells that Joseph is sold to a man by the name of Potiphar in the country of Egypt. Verse two and three of this chapter says, “The Lord was with Joseph, and he prospered, and lived in the house of his Egyptian master. When his master saw that the Lord was with him, and that the Lord gave him success in all he did.” Although Joseph was a slave, he quickly rose to overseeing everything that master had except Potiphar’s wife and his menu.  Joseph was diligent with responsibilities, handsome and godly. 

Potiphar’s wife took notice of Joseph too.  When her seduction of Joseph failed, being humiliated, anger and vindictive, she concocted a lie to her husband of how Joseph had attempted to assault her. Her story convinced her husband that drastic measures were needed, and her husband acted accordingly.

What happened to Joseph with another betrayal?  This time he landed in prison, “But while Joseph was there in prison, the Lord was with him; He showed him kindness and granted him favor in the eyes of the prison warden. The warden put Joseph in charge of all those in prison and he was made responsible for all that was done there.” (verses 20-23)

The dreams that got Joseph in trouble, also were a key in getting him promoted.  While in prison Joseph correctly interpreted two inmates’ dreams.  The cupbearer that regained his position as Joseph had said in the interpretation, was requested by Joseph to ask for his release from Pharoah.  The cupbearer forgot this request for two full years.  Then Pharoah had a dream that Joseph interpreted correctly and what a change happened then.

The placement and timing of God is perfect.  While the hardships of Joseph’s life were not fair, he was diligent in all tasks he was given, he kept working, moved into leadership positions as a slave and as a prisoner.  The Lord never left him but continued to build him for the saving of His people and nations.  God has a future for Joseph that will bring to fulfillment for what he had showed Joseph as a teenager.

Pastor Ruth Kaunley