What does "showed him kindness" reveal about God's character in Genesis 39:21? The Scene Behind the Phrase “ ‘But the LORD was with Joseph and showed him kindness and granted him favor in the eyes of the chief jailer.’ ” (Genesis 39:21) Joseph has been falsely accused and locked away, yet verse 21 assures us that God remained actively present and demonstrably good to him. Key Word: Kindness • The Hebrew word is ḥesed—often translated “steadfast love,” “loving-kindness,” or “mercy.” • ḥesed is covenant language: committed, loyal, never-failing love expressed in tangible help. What Kindness Reveals About God’s Character • Loyal Presence—God does not abandon His own when circumstances turn dark. His “kindness” follows Joseph into prison, proving His nearness is not location-dependent (Psalm 139:7–10). • Active Benevolence—ḥesed is more than an attitude; it moves God to intervene, opening doors of favor with the warden. God’s goodness shows up in practical outcomes (Psalm 34:8). • Covenant Faithfulness—God had promised Abraham’s line blessing (Genesis 17:7). Even behind bars, God keeps covenant promises through kindness toward Joseph. • Sovereign Grace—Kindness is unearned. Joseph is innocent yet powerless; God freely bestows favor, highlighting grace as central to His dealings (Exodus 34:6). • Redeeming Purpose—God’s kindness in prison sets the stage for Joseph’s rise to save nations (Genesis 50:20). Kindness is purposeful, weaving trials into redemption. How We See This Character Elsewhere • Ruth 2:20—Boaz praises the LORD “who has not withdrawn His kindness (ḥesed) from the living or the dead.” Same covenant loyalty extends to a Moabite widow. • Psalm 136—“His loving devotion endures forever” appears in every verse, underscoring the permanence of God’s ḥesed. • 2 Samuel 7:15—God guarantees David, “My loving devotion will never depart from him.” • Titus 3:4–5—“The kindness of God our Savior and His love for mankind appeared… He saved us.” The prison kindness toward Joseph foreshadows gospel grace in Christ. Living in Light of God’s Kindness • Expect His Presence—Wherever believers land—workplace, hospital room, prison cell—the LORD remains with them. • Look for Tangible Favors—Doors, relationships, and resources may open unexpectedly; recognize them as ḥesed in action. • Trust His Promises—Kindness flows from covenant. Standing on Scripture aligns us with His faithful nature. • Rest in Grace—God’s kindness is not earned; receive it gladly and extend it to others (Ephesians 4:32). |
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