Psalms 105:19 - Exposition

Until the time that his word came ; i.e. "came true," "came to pass" (comp. Deuteronomy 18:22 ; Jeremiah 17:15 ). Joseph's "word came," when the chief butler was restored to favour, and the chief baker hanged ( Genesis 40:20-22 ). The word of the Lord tried him. It is difficult to decide what "word of the Lord" is meant. Hengstenberg suggests "the promise of the possession of Canaan." But this had not been made to him. Dean Johnson thinks that there is an "implied promise" to Joseph himself in Genesis 37:5 , Genesis 37:9 , etc.—a promise that he should be raised to an eminent rank above his brethren, and that it was this promise which, during the time of his affliction, "tried" or tested him.