Genesis 39:20-23 New International Version (NIV)
20 Joseph’s master took him and put him in prison, the place where the king’s prisoners were confined.
But while Joseph was there in the prison, 21 the Lord was with him; he showed him kindness and granted him favor in the eyes of the prison warden. 22 So the warden put Joseph in charge of all those held in the prison, and he was made responsible for all that was done there. 23 The warden paid no attention to anything under Joseph’s care, because the Lord was with Joseph and gave him success in whatever he did.
Prisons were very grim places, and the conditions were vile. The prisons housed forced labor and the accused awaiting trial. At this time, prisoners were guilty until proven innocent. There were no rights. Many prisoners never even made it to court. During his long stay, he remained hopeful. He had a positive attitude. Everything he did he did to the best of his ability. This was soon noticed by the warden. Joseph was promoted to an administrator in the prison. A long time passed before Joseph got to appear before Pharaoh. He was not called out for trial, but to interpret a dream, but this would turn his life around. Are you facing what may seem to be a hopeless situation? Do what Joseph did. Take each small task that you have and do your best. Remember that God can turn your situation around just like Joseph’s. God will see your efforts and reverse overwhelming odds in ways you would never expect.
