God Is With You

Joseph’s life reminds us that God’s presence does not prevent hardship—but it does sustain faithfulness through it.

Favored by his father and given God-shaped dreams, Joseph became the target of his brothers’ jealousy. Their bitterness led to betrayal, slavery, and years of suffering far removed from the promises Joseph had received. From the pit to Potiphar’s house, Joseph’s circumstances changed dramatically—but one truth remained constant.

“The Lord was with Joseph.”

—Genesis 39:2

This phrase appears repeatedly throughout the chapter and becomes the lens through which we must read Joseph’s story. God’s presence did not remove difficulty, but it governed every moment of it.

In Potiphar’s house, Joseph served faithfully, and the Lord blessed his work. Scripture tells us that everything Joseph touched prospered—not because life was easy, but because God was near. Yet even in obedience, Joseph suffered. When he refused temptation and chose integrity, he was falsely accused and imprisoned.

Have you ever done the right thing and still suffered for it? Joseph’s story reminds us that faithfulness is not always immediately rewarded—but it is always seen by God. Despite injustice, Scripture repeats the same assurance:

“The Lord was with Joseph and extended kindness to him.”

—Genesis 39:21

God’s presence followed Joseph into the prison cell just as surely as it had rested upon him in the household. The location changed, but the Lord did not.

This truth challenges us to examine our own faith. Do we trust God only when life is progressing forward, or do we believe He is with us even when we feel forgotten? When prayers seem delayed and circumstances seem unfair, can we still rest in the promise of His nearness?

Joseph teaches us that God is always working—even when we cannot see the outcome. The delays, detours, and disappointments were not obstacles to God’s plan; they were instruments of it. What looked like interruption was actually preparation.

Perhaps today you find yourself in a season that feels confusing or undeserved. Genesis 39 reminds us that God’s presence is not measured by comfort or success, but by His faithful companionship through every trial.

The same Lord who walked with Joseph walks with His people still. He has not abandoned you. He has not lost control. And He is not finished with your story. When life does not make sense, hold fast to this truth: The Lord is with you.