Genesis 39:23

The warden did not concern himself with anything under Joseph's care, because the LORD was with Joseph and gave him success in whatever he did.

Study Bible

The warden did not concern himself with anything under Joseph’s care
This phrase highlights Joseph's exceptional trustworthiness and competence. In the context of ancient Egyptian prisons, a warden would typically oversee all activities and ensure order. However, Joseph's integrity and God's favor allowed him to gain the warden's complete trust. This mirrors Joseph's earlier experience in Potiphar's house, where he was also entrusted with significant responsibility. The trust placed in Joseph foreshadows his future role as a leader in Egypt, demonstrating how God prepares His chosen servants for greater tasks.

because the LORD was with Joseph
This phrase emphasizes the divine presence and favor that Joseph experienced throughout his life. The recurring theme of God's presence with Joseph is a testament to the covenant relationship between God and His people. It reflects the broader biblical narrative where God's presence signifies blessing, guidance, and protection. This divine companionship is a precursor to the New Testament promise of God's presence with believers through the Holy Spirit. Joseph's life serves as a type of Christ, who also experienced God's presence and favor in His earthly ministry.

and gave him success in whatever he did
The success Joseph experienced is attributed directly to God's intervention. This success is not merely material or professional but encompasses all aspects of his life, reflecting the biblical principle that true prosperity comes from God. Joseph's ability to thrive in adverse circumstances is a testament to God's sovereignty and faithfulness. This phrase connects to other scriptural promises of prosperity for those who are faithful to God, such as in Psalm 1:3 and Joshua 1:8. Joseph's life foreshadows the ultimate success and victory found in Jesus Christ, who perfectly fulfilled God's will.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joseph
A Hebrew man sold into slavery by his brothers, who rises to a position of authority in Potiphar's house and later in prison due to God's favor.

2. The Warden
The overseer of the prison where Joseph is held. He entrusts Joseph with significant responsibilities because of Joseph's evident success and integrity.

3. The LORD
The covenant God of Israel, who is actively involved in Joseph's life, granting him favor and success despite his circumstances.

4. The Prison
The place where Joseph is unjustly held after being falsely accused by Potiphar's wife. It becomes a place of God's providence and preparation for Joseph's future role in Egypt.

5. Potiphar's House
The initial place of Joseph's servitude in Egypt, where he first experiences God's favor and rises to a position of trust.

Teaching Points

God's Presence in Adversity
Joseph's account reminds us that God's presence is not limited by our circumstances. Even in prison, God was with Joseph, granting him favor and success.

Faithfulness in Small Things
Joseph's integrity and diligence in his duties, even in prison, demonstrate the importance of being faithful in all circumstances, trusting that God sees and rewards our faithfulness.

Divine Favor and Human Responsibility
While God's favor was upon Joseph, he also acted responsibly and with integrity. Our actions should align with God's will, trusting Him for the outcome.

Preparation for Greater Purpose
Joseph's time in prison was a period of preparation for his future role in Egypt. We should view our trials as opportunities for growth and preparation for God's purposes.

Trust in God's Sovereignty
Joseph's life exemplifies trust in God's sovereign plan, encouraging us to trust that God is at work even when we cannot see the full picture.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Joseph's experience in prison demonstrate the principle of God's presence in adversity, and how can we apply this to our own lives?

2. In what ways does Joseph's faithfulness in small responsibilities prepare him for greater tasks, and how can we practice faithfulness in our daily lives?

3. How does the account of Joseph illustrate the balance between divine favor and human responsibility?

4. Reflect on a time when a difficult situation in your life served as preparation for a future opportunity. How does this relate to Joseph's experience?

5. How can we cultivate trust in God's sovereignty when facing uncertain or challenging circumstances, drawing from Joseph's example and other scriptures?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 39:2-6
Earlier in the chapter, Joseph's success in Potiphar's house is attributed to the LORD's presence with him, paralleling his success in prison.

Acts 7:9-10
Stephen's speech in the New Testament recounts Joseph's account, emphasizing God's presence and deliverance, which aligns with the theme of divine favor in Genesis 39:23.

Psalm 105:17-19
This passage reflects on Joseph's journey, highlighting God's purpose and faithfulness throughout his trials.

Romans 8:28
This verse speaks to God's ability to work all things for good for those who love Him, a principle evident in Joseph's life.

Proverbs 3:5-6
Trusting in the LORD and acknowledging Him leads to success and guidance, as seen in Joseph's life.