Psa 105:16-19, 16 Moreover He called for a famine in the land; He destroyed all the provision of bread. 17 He sent a man before them Joseph who was sold as a slave…19 Until the time that his word came to pass, The word of the LORD tested him.
The psalmist retells the story of Joseph, as a link in the chain of providences which secured the fulfillment of the Covenant. This story provides comfort that despite the delayed blessings, the testing of men’s faith proves their endurance. And just as the word of the LORD tested Joseph so shall we be tested. Joseph’s brother sold him but God sent him. God was actively working even through the wrongs to accomplish His purposes. Pro 19:21 “Many are the plans in the mind of a man, but it is the purpose of the LORD that will stand.”
There is a trying word and a delivering word, and we must bear one until the other comes. The testing word that strengthens is also the delivering word that keeps. The word tested Joseph’s character in readiness for his position. Those tested by the fire of word often maintain character of faithfulness at all times. Heb 10:35-36, “35 Therefore do not cast away your confidence, which has great reward. 36 For you have need of endurance, so that after you have done the will of God, you may receive the promise:”