What does Genesis 39:21 mean?

Joseph's circumstances have radically reversed overnight. His previous lofty position as the servant in charge of his powerful master's household is over (Genesis 39:6). Now he's a prisoner in the king's prison for a crime he didn't commit (Genesis 39:7–15). It's clearly not fair.

However, Scripture is quick to reassure us that Joseph's apparent bad fortune does not mean God has abandoned him. Just the opposite is true: The Lord remains with Joseph. Joseph was sold as a slave (Genesis 37:26–28), but this was better than being murdered (Genesis 37:18–20). He was jailed on a false charge of attempted rape (Genesis 39:16–20), but this was better than being summarily executed. These events are difficult to endure, but they happen for a reason (Genesis 45:5; 50:20).

Even now, God is showing His steadfast love to Joseph in the middle of terrible circumstances. God will bless Joseph and cause him to thrive even inside of prison (Genesis 39:22–23). The Lord causes the jailer to favor Joseph, improving his quality of life in a place that could be quite difficult. Joseph's entire life is marked by respect from those in authority because of his faithful work ethic, his integrity, and especially because of the Lord's blessing.