Genesis 39:5

From the time that he put Joseph in charge of his household and all he owned, the LORD blessed the Egyptian's household on account of him. The LORD's blessing was on everything he owned, both in his house and in his field.

Study Bible

From the time
This phrase marks a significant turning point in the narrative of Joseph's life. It indicates a specific moment when Joseph's influence began to manifest in Potiphar's household. The Hebrew word for "time" here is "עֵת" (et), which can denote a season or a specific period. This suggests that God's providential timing is at work, orchestrating events for His purposes.

he put him in charge
The act of putting Joseph in charge signifies a transfer of authority and trust. The Hebrew verb "פָּקַד" (paqad) implies oversight and responsibility. This reflects Joseph's integrity and capability, which earned him a position of leadership despite his status as a foreign slave. It is a testament to how God can elevate His faithful servants in any circumstance.

of his household
The term "household" in Hebrew is "בַּיִת" (bayit), which encompasses not just the physical dwelling but also the family and servants within it. Joseph's role extended beyond mere management; he became a steward of all that belonged to Potiphar. This highlights the biblical principle of stewardship, where God entrusts His people with responsibilities to manage faithfully.

and all that he owned
This phrase underscores the totality of Joseph's authority. The Hebrew word "כֹּל" (kol) means "all" or "everything," indicating that nothing was withheld from Joseph's oversight. It reflects the comprehensive nature of God's blessing, which extends to every aspect of life when His people walk in obedience and faithfulness.

the LORD blessed
The blessing of the LORD, "יְהוָה" (YHWH), is central to this verse. The Hebrew word "בָּרַךְ" (barak) means to bless, to endow with power for success, prosperity, and longevity. This divine favor is not just a passive state but an active force that brings about positive change and prosperity. It is a reminder that true blessing comes from God alone.

the household of the Egyptian
The mention of "the Egyptian" highlights the cross-cultural impact of God's blessing through Joseph. Potiphar, an Egyptian, experiences the favor of the Hebrew God because of Joseph's presence. This serves as a foreshadowing of God's plan to bless all nations through His chosen people, ultimately fulfilled in Christ.

because of Joseph
Joseph is the conduit of God's blessing. His faithfulness and integrity are the reasons for the prosperity that Potiphar's household experiences. This illustrates the biblical truth that God often uses His people as vessels to bring His blessings to others, demonstrating His grace and favor through their lives.

The blessing of the LORD was on everything he owned
This reiteration emphasizes the pervasive nature of God's blessing. The Hebrew word "כֹּל" (kol) is used again to stress that nothing was exempt from divine favor. It serves as a powerful reminder that when God blesses, it affects every area of life, both seen and unseen.

both in his house and in his field
The distinction between "house" and "field" indicates that God's blessing was not limited to domestic affairs but extended to agricultural and economic endeavors as well. This comprehensive blessing reflects the holistic nature of God's provision, covering all aspects of life and work. It is a testament to the abundant life that God desires for His people when they walk in His ways.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joseph
A Hebrew man sold into slavery by his brothers, who becomes a trusted overseer in Potiphar's house.

2. Potiphar
An Egyptian officer of Pharaoh, captain of the guard, who purchases Joseph as a slave.

3. The LORD
The covenant name of God, Yahweh, who blesses Potiphar's house because of Joseph.

4. Egypt
The land where Joseph is taken as a slave, representing a place of both trial and divine providence.

5. Potiphar’s House
The setting where Joseph serves and where God's blessing is evident due to Joseph's presence.

Teaching Points

God's Presence Brings Blessing
Joseph's account illustrates that God's presence in our lives can bring blessings to those around us, even in difficult circumstances.

Faithfulness in Adversity
Joseph remained faithful and diligent despite his status as a slave, showing that our circumstances do not define our ability to serve God.

Influence of a Godly Life
Joseph's integrity and work ethic had a profound impact on Potiphar's household, reminding us that our actions can testify to God's goodness.

Divine Favor and Responsibility
With God's favor comes responsibility; Joseph managed Potiphar's household with wisdom and integrity, setting an example for us to steward our roles well.

God's Sovereign Plan
Joseph's journey from slavery to leadership in Egypt demonstrates God's sovereign plan and purpose, encouraging us to trust Him in our own lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Joseph's experience in Potiphar's house demonstrate the principle of God's blessing through His people?

2. In what ways can we, like Joseph, be a source of blessing in our workplaces or communities?

3. How does Joseph's faithfulness in adversity challenge us to remain steadfast in our own trials?

4. What can we learn from Joseph about the relationship between divine favor and personal responsibility?

5. How does Joseph's account encourage us to trust in God's sovereign plan, even when our circumstances seem unfavorable?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 12:3
God's promise to Abraham that all peoples on earth will be blessed through him, which is seen in Joseph's influence in Egypt.

Psalm 1:3
The righteous man is like a tree planted by streams of water, prospering in all he does, similar to Joseph's prosperity in Potiphar's house.

Proverbs 3:9-10
The principle of honoring God with one's possessions and the resulting blessings, as seen in Joseph's faithful stewardship.

Acts 7:9-10
Stephen's speech recounts Joseph's account, highlighting God's presence and favor despite adversity.

Romans 8:28
The assurance that God works all things for good for those who love Him, as demonstrated in Joseph's life.