Old Testament
Genesis 39:21
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
But the LORD was with Joseph and showed him mercy, causing him to find favor with the prison warden.
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But the LORD was with Joseph, and shewed him mercy, and gave him favour in the sight of the keeper of the prison.
What Genesis 39:21 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Genesis 39:21, we see that despite Joseph's difficult circumstances in prison, God remained with him. This verse highlights God's mercy and favor towards Joseph, which allowed him to gain the trust of the prison warden. Joseph's situation seemed dire, yet God's presence transformed his experience, showing that even in hardship, divine support can lead to unexpected opportunities. The warden recognized Joseph's abilities and character, which ultimately set the stage for Joseph's future. This passage reassures us that God can work in our lives during tough times, providing us with strength and favor when we need it most. It emphasizes the importance of maintaining faith and integrity, as these qualities can lead to positive outcomes, even in challenging situations.
How to apply Genesis 39:21 to your life
When facing difficult situations, remember that God is with you, just as He was with Joseph. Maintain your integrity and trust in God's plan. Look for opportunities to serve others, even in tough times, as this can lead to unexpected blessings and favor in your life.
Curated for this public verse page. Genesis Summary
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Illustrated scene from Joseph, Jacob's son's story: The LORD Is with Joseph in Prison (Genesis 39:21–23)
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Joseph, Jacob's son
Photo: Zeev Stein / PikiWiki Israel, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.5. Source. Location: Tel Beer Sheva National Park, Israel. Resized for the web.
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Beersheba
Where Abraham and Isaac dug wells and worshiped the LORD, at the southern edge of the land.
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Key themes
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At a Glance — the Book of Genesis
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Genesis 39:21 mean?
Genesis 39:21 means that even in Joseph's imprisonment, God was present with him, showing mercy and granting him favor with the prison warden. This illustrates how divine support can transform difficult situations into opportunities.
What is the significance of God's mercy in Genesis 39:21?
God's mercy in Genesis 39:21 signifies His unwavering support for Joseph during his hardships. It highlights that God's compassion can lead to favor and trust, even in the most challenging circumstances.
How does Genesis 39:21 relate to integrity?
Genesis 39:21 relates to integrity by showing that Joseph maintained his character and trust in God, which ultimately led to his favor with the prison warden. It suggests that integrity can lead to positive outcomes, even in tough situations.
What can we learn from Genesis 39:21?
From Genesis 39:21, we learn that God is with us during difficult times and that maintaining faith and integrity can lead to unexpected blessings. It encourages us to look for opportunities to serve others, even when facing challenges.
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