This is a refreshing contrast from the previous chapter, but also a warning that righteous behaviour can lead to suffering.
Joseph was sold to Potiphar as a slave. "The Lord was with Joseph so that he prospered". We see here an example of true prosperity, and how to handle adversity. The circumstances of life had worked against Joseph, partly through his own boastfulness, and partly through the evil behaviour of his brothers. The solution lay in the way that he acted. When in difficult situations we usually focus on what other people should do to put things right. The Biblical teaching is that we should first focus on ourselves and what we can do to put things right. Part of the fruit of the Spirit that receives several mentions in the New Testament is self-control. We focus on controlling everyone and everything else except ourselves. If we focus on our own behaviour we will actually get on a lot better. This is what Joseph did here and he concentrated on being a good slave.
As a result, Joseph's good behaviour was noted and he was promoted. The blessing of God was on Joseph and it spread to those around him. We too should seek to be people who bring blessing to others.
However, there was also a trap, as Potiphar's wife sought to seduce Joseph. Joseph refused and acted with integrity. This did not bring immediate reward, and he ended up being falsely accused of rape, and so ended up in prison. The path our life takes will not always be smooth.
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