And Joseph's master took him and put him into the prison, a place where the king's prisoners were bound: and he was there in the prison. But the Lord was with Joseph, and shewed him mercy, and gave him favour in the sight of the keeper of the prison. (Genesis 39:20-21)
Joseph’s story is filled with wrongdoing and injustice. In Genesis 39:20-21, we read that Joseph was imprisoned. Many people may have, at this point, looked up and prayed, “Why God?” or “What did I do wrong?” However, the key phrase in this passage is, "The Lord was with Joseph." This is the essence of Joseph’s life—it is not merely a story of his circumstances, betrayals, or prison walls; rather, Joseph’s story is defined by the presence of God.
Even in a place of confinement and confusion, Joseph was not forsaken. The prison was intended to silence him, bind him, and remove him from influence. Instead, it became a setting where God displayed His favor on Joseph’s life. God showed mercy and granted him influence even in the most dire situations.
No matter where you find yourself or what challenges you face, remember that you are never without hope, and you are never alone because God is with you.
Jesus promised us that in this world, we would have trouble. In fact, God’s favor is often most apparent in difficult places and tough moments. Joseph’s story teaches us that being treated unfairly doesn’t equate to losing God’s favor. God’s mercy will find a path even in the darkest times. God’s presence is more important than any prison; His favor is not constrained by what man can impose.
Joseph’s life reminds us that God’s favor isn’t limited to good times—it is also evident in our trials. If you feel as though you’re experiencing a difficult season, remember that you are not forgotten and you are not alone.
Practical Application
When you feel frustrated, boxed in, or taken advantage of, take a moment to remind yourself of your faith and say out loud, “God is with me.” It’s not just that He sees you or is on your side; He is with you during those moments of trouble.