“The LORD was with Joseph, and he was a successful man; and he was in the house of his master the Egyptian. And his master saw that the LORD was with him and that the LORD made all he did to prosper in his hand…but the LORD was with Joseph and showed him mercy…the LORD was with him.”
Genesis 39:2-3, 21, 23

The life of Joseph can be seen from at least three different points of view. His life can be seen from a historical point of view, but we can also see the sovereign hand of God and His providential care and faithfulness toward Joseph. Lastly, Joseph is a beautiful picture and type of our Lord Jesus Christ.

His life can be divided into four basic categories, and in each, Joseph is an amazing example to us. First, we are introduced to Joseph the dreamer in Genesis 37. Then, in chapter 39, we see Joseph the worker, followed by Joseph the prisoner (39:21–41:13). In the last section of Joseph’s life, we see him as Joseph the ruler (41:13–50:26).

Throughout the ups and downs of Joseph’s life, we read of one unchanging fact: “The LORD was with Joseph” (39:2, 3, 5, 21, 23; Acts 7:9). From the pit to the palace, the Lord was with Joseph. Everything else changes in life, but the Lord was constant and consistent. The same God who was always with Joseph has promised never to leave or forsake you (Hebrews 13:5). He holds you in His hand, and no one can snatch you out of His hand (John 10:28-29) or separate you from His love (Romans 8:35, 39). Like Joseph, you are wonderfully secure in His hands and in His heart!

While the Lord allowed Joseph to experience valleys in his life, He was always with him and always at work behind the scenes. The Lord worked through the discipline of service. Joseph was stripped of his coat of many colors in exchange for a servant’s clothes, clothes of humility. The Lord also worked through the discipline of self-control, helping Joseph to gain victory over the temptation presented by Potiphar’s wife.

We see a third discipline in Joseph’s life: the discipline of suffering. Through it, Joseph learned endurance through his experiences and patience in the midst of the difficulties he faced.

Mtangazaji wa Leo:
You may be walking through a valley experience at the moment. As the Lord was with Joseph, dear friend, He is with you! Turn to Him, rest in Him, and know that He never left Joseph, and He will not leave you!