What is the meaning of Psalm 105:20? The king sent • Within the flow of Psalm 105, this line recalls the moment when Pharaoh learned of Joseph’s God-given wisdom (Genesis 41:14). • The initiative comes from the throne, underscoring God’s sovereignty working through earthly authority, just as Proverbs 21:1 affirms that “the king’s heart is a stream of water in the hand of the LORD.” • God’s covenant faithfulness is on display: He had foretold Joseph’s rise (Genesis 37:5-11), and now He moves the king to act at the exact appointed time (Psalm 105:17, 19). and released him • Joseph’s years of unjust imprisonment end instantly; chains fall off because the word of the king carries absolute power (Ecclesiastes 8:4). • The verse highlights complete deliverance, echoing other moments when God’s people are suddenly freed—Peter from Herod’s prison (Acts 12:7-10) and the Israelites from Egypt (Exodus 12:31-32). • By pairing God’s faithfulness with the king’s decree, the psalmist shows that divine purpose is never thwarted by human injustice (Romans 8:28). the ruler of peoples • Pharaoh is described not merely as a local monarch but as one who governs nations, stressing the magnitude of Joseph’s promotion. • This phrase reminds us that God can steer the most influential leaders for His redemptive plan (Daniel 2:21; Isaiah 45:1-4). • It foreshadows Christ, the true Ruler over all peoples (Revelation 1:5), who will likewise exalt the humble (Philippians 2:9-11). set him free • Freedom here is more than release from prison; it is installation into purpose—Joseph becomes administrator over Egypt (Genesis 41:41-44). • The transformation from slave to statesman mirrors the believer’s transfer “from the dominion of darkness into the kingdom of the Son” (Colossians 1:13). • Joseph’s freedom becomes the means of preserving many lives (Genesis 50:20), illustrating how personal deliverance often serves a wider redemptive scope. summary Psalm 105:20 captures the pivotal turn in Joseph’s story: God moves a world ruler to act, breaks Joseph’s bonds, and positions him for God-ordained influence. The verse testifies that no circumstance is beyond God’s reach; at the right moment He sends, releases, rules, and frees—always keeping His promises and advancing His saving plan for His people. |
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