The LORD was with Joseph, so he became a successful man. And he was in the house of his master, the Egyptian. Now his master saw that the LORD was with him and how the LORD caused all that he did to prosper in his hand. So Joseph found favor in his sight and became his personal servant; and he made him overseer over his house, and all that he owned he put in his charge. Genesis 39:2-4
The story of how God worked in Joseph’s life inspired me as a man working in a secular marketplace. When I was in my 20’s and just starting in my career, there were a few things I prayed for daily. I would ask God to give me a heart of wisdom and understanding, to give me favor, and to bless the work of my hands. I knew that God likes when His children involve Him into their daily doings at work. He then blesses the work of their hands.
God knew how to get Potiphar’s attention. As God blessed the work of Joseph’s hands (employee’s work), it created favor for him with Potiphar (supervisor). In the same way, when you have consistent or unusual success in your work, those in authority take notice of you and draw near to you. Your success will create increased influence and responsibility, positioning you for the Master’s use. With the Lord’s favor at work in your work, rapid and consistent success will cause you to stand out above the crowd. What the good Father did for Joseph, He delights to do for you.
God’s Favor has a purpose. God grants success and increases favor not just for your benefit but for His purposes. In Joseph’s case, God’s favor that created early success caused him to rise up in Potiphar’s household so people of influence would take notice of him. Joseph was not just successful, but servant-minded, responsible, wise, hard-working, and more. These character traits would give him a reputation in the ranks that God would one day use. In hindsight, we know God’s greater purpose was for Joseph to one day become Governor over Egypt so he could provide for Israel in the seven-year famine. Like you, Joseph did not know how any of his daily doings would play out in the future, yet his hands continued to work diligently to play the hand he was dealt. Joseph showed up everyday, said his prayers and did his best, leaning not on his own understanding but relying on God. If God can take Joseph from a slave in Egypt to Governor, what could he do with you in your vocational career if you submit to His ways? What is the next ‘Joseph Assignment’ God has given to you?
REFLECT TO CONNECT
- What daily disciplines or skill might God be instilling in you during this season?
- What are some of God’s purposes you have discerned for your life?
- With what people do you have favor with?
Principle: The Joseph Assignment demonstrates how God can take a person from the pits of despair to a position of prominence, where is God leading you?
