S)"2 The LORD was with Joseph, so he became a successful man. And he was in the house of his master, the Egyptian. 3 Now his master saw that the LORD was with him and how the LORD caused all that he did to prosper in his hand. 4 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 (NASB)
O) This passage doesn't say, "Joseph worked hard, so he became a successful man." Neither does it say, "Joseph was opportunistic, so he became a successful man." In fact, at no point in Joseph's ascension is there any referrence to him being a motivated individual in any fashion. It is the LORD being with him, and the wisdom he received from God, that caused his promotion. I know that working hard is important, there are plenty of examples and instructions in the Bible, but that's not what causes promotion. Promotion belongs to the LORD.
A) I struggle sometimes with a desire to be more motivated. It's often after bouts of laziness (a common struggle for me). I want to want to work hard, but I have trouble finding motivation to push myself at work. My pastor recently pointed out that, even in a perfect world (The Garden) man has to work. It's part of God's design and the notion of retirement, like so many things As Seen On TV, is not found in the Bible. The important things for me to remember is that I need to ask God for wisdom, walk in righteousness, being faithful to Him. Then I need to work with integrity, without laziness, as unto the Lord. It's okay that I'm not seeking promotion, because that's still up to God.
P) Father, please forgive me for laziness and help me combat that. Help me to remember that the most important things in life are eternal, and my career should never be my focus. Holy Spirit, continue to give me wisdom, which comes from the Father, and lead me in everything I do - even at work. Help me trust in Your provision, without worrying about promotion. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.
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