Sent Before Them (Psalm 105:16-21)

“Moreover he called for a famine upon the land: he brake the whole staff of bread. He sent a man before them, even Joseph, who was sold for a servant: whose feet they hurt with fetters: he was laid in iron: until the time that his word came: the word of the Lord tried him. The king sent and loosed him; even the ruler of the people, and let him go free. He made him lord of his house, and ruler of all his substance.” — Psalm 105:16–21

 

Summary:

God’s providence is evident in both the famine and the provision prepared beforehand. Joseph’s brothers acted wickedly, yet God sent him ahead to preserve life. His usefulness came through servitude, false accusation, fetters, and delay, as God’s promise tested his faith before raising him to authority. Joseph therefore encourages trust in God’s care and points beyond himself to Christ, who was rejected, took the form of a servant, suffered death, and was highly exalted. Because all saving fullness dwells in Christ, guilty and needy people may approach him with confidence for grace.

 

Outline:

• God rules calamity as well as comfort
  • The famine obeyed his call; no human resource could resist.
• Provision was prepared before the need appeared
  • Joseph was sent ahead to preserve life in the coming distress.
• Providence worked through human wrongdoing
  • His brothers were guilty, yet God directed the outcome for good.
• The promise tested Joseph before it raised him
  • Delay and imprisonment tested his faith, patience, and submission.
• Joseph points believers to Christ
  • The rejected and humbled Saviour is now exalted for his people.