Joseph and the Lord (by Stephen Simpson)

(originally posted on February, 7th, 2008)

I recently read Genesis 39. This is the chapter where Joseph is promoted in Potiphar's house. Potiphar's wife attempts to seduce Joseph. When he refuses she accuses him of trying to force himself upon her. Naturally, Joseph is sent to prison.

This is a familiar story. I have read it many times. What struck me in reading it this time was noticing the active role that the Lord plays in this chapter. He is in total control throughout this chapter. Consider these verses:

• "The LORD was with Joseph, and he became a successful man" (v. 2)
• "His master saw that the LORD was with him and that the LORD caused all that he did to succeed in his hands." (v. 3)
• "The LORD blessed the Egyptian's house for Joseph's sake; the blessing of the LORD was on all that he had, in house and field." (v. 5)
• "But the LORD was with Joseph and showed him steadfast love and gave him favor in the sight of the keeper of the prison." (v. 21)
• "The keeper of the prison paid no attention to anything that was in Joseph's charge, because the LORD was with him. And whatever he did, the LORD made it succeed." (v. 23)

It should be obvious to us that all of these experiences and situations were a part of God's sovereign plan for Joseph. God was no bystander in this story. He was the master planner. We would do well to remember that the same is true of us. God is not passively sitting by and merely observing our lives. He is orchestrating them. Everything that happens in our lives is ordained by Him.