MARCH 8, 2025 – JOSEPH IN EGYPT

READ: Gen. 39:1–23: … The LORD was with Joseph, and he was a successful man… So it was, from the time that he had made him overseer of his house and all that he had, that the LORD blessed the Egyptian’s house for Joseph’s sake… His master’s wife cast longing eyes on Joseph, and she said, Lie with me. But he refused… How then can I do this great wickedness, and sin against God?

Joseph is sold as a slave to the Egyptian Potiphar, who serves at Pharaoh’s court and is the captain of his guard. The fact that the LORD is with Joseph in all he does (vv.3, 5) is strongly emphasized in this narrative.

Potiphar also notices this and quickly entrusts Joseph with important responsibilities. Eventually, Potiphar leaves everything in Joseph’s hands, except for the preparation of his food, which is subject to pagan rituals.

Joseph continues to serve the LORD in everything, even in this purely pagan environment and even in outward matters. Potiphar’s household prospers greatly because of Joseph (v.5). But then Joseph faces temptation. Potiphar’s wife sets her sights on him and tries to seduce him into adultery. In God’s strength, Joseph firmly refuses, citing God as the reason he will not sin.

Yet the woman persists in her attempts, until she ultimately accuses Joseph falsely of assault, landing him in prison. According to Egyptian law, this crime warranted the death penalty. However, Potiphar shows leniency by not executing him.

How differently Joseph acts compared to Judah! Yet Joseph unjustly ends up among Pharaoh’s prisoners. Again, the LORD blesses Joseph. He shows him kindness and grants him favor with the prison warden, who soon promotes Joseph to a trusted position as a kind of head jailer. Joseph’s time in prison likely lasts about ten years. But God is with him, and Joseph surely feels His presence!

Is prosperity always a sign of God’s blessing?

Sing: Ps. 11:1