Psalms 105:19

Psalms 105:19 is a profound verse that encapsulates the journey of Joseph, highlighting God's intricate providence and the purpose behind periods of waiting and trial.

Context

Psalm 105 is a historical psalm, a hymn of praise recounting God's faithfulness to His covenant people, Israel, from the time of Abraham through the Exodus. Verses 16-22 specifically narrate the story of Joseph, whom God sent ahead to Egypt to preserve His people during a famine. The preceding verses, Psalms 105:17-18, describe Joseph being sold into slavery and suffering imprisonment: "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."

Verse 19 then speaks to the duration and nature of this suffering. The "word" refers to the prophetic dreams God had given Joseph in his youth, indicating his future prominence and the bowing of his family before him (Genesis 37:5-11). These were God's promises that had not yet come to fruition. Joseph endured years of hardship—slavery, false accusations, and unjust imprisonment—before the divine plan unfolded.

Key Themes

• Divine Providence and Timing: The verse powerfully illustrates that God's plans unfold according to His perfect timing. Joseph's suffering was not an accident but part of a larger, divinely orchestrated sequence "until the time that his word came." It emphasizes that God's promises are sure and will be fulfilled, even if they seem delayed.
• Testing and Preparation: The phrase "the word of the LORD tried him" signifies a period of intense testing and refinement. Joseph's trials in Egypt served as a crucible, purifying his character, deepening his faith, and preparing him for the immense responsibility he would eventually bear as second-in-command of Egypt. God uses difficult seasons to mold and equip His servants.
• God's Faithfulness: Despite the seemingly hopeless circumstances, God remained faithful to Joseph and His word concerning him. This theme assures believers that God never abandons those He has purposed for His service, even when their path is arduous.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word translated "tried" in KJV is tsaraph (צרף). This term is frequently used in the Old Testament to describe the process of refining metals, such as gold or silver, by fire. It implies a process of heating, melting, and purifying to remove dross and impurities. Thus, "the word of the LORD tried him" means that God's prophetic word, through the difficult circumstances it brought (or allowed), served as a refining fire for Joseph, testing his character, strengthening his resolve, and preparing him to be pure and fit for the great task ahead.

Practical Application

Psalms 105:19 offers immense encouragement for believers facing periods of waiting, hardship, or unexplained suffering. It reminds us that:

• God's Word is True: If God has given you a promise or a direction, He will bring it to pass in His own time.
• Trials Have Purpose: Our difficulties are often not punitive but preparatory. They are opportunities for God to refine our character, deepen our trust, and equip us for future service, much like Joseph was prepared to save his family and a nation.
• Patience is Essential: Just as Joseph endured years of testing, we too may need to cultivate patience and perseverance, trusting that God is working behind the scenes, even when we cannot see it. This perspective helps us to see that God works all things for good for those who love Him.

This verse encourages us to hold fast to God's promises, knowing that even in the darkest valleys, His "word" is actively at work, refining us for His glory.