Deeper ReflectionThis week we will be reflecting on the theme of
Our Work in
God’s Hands using Scripture texts taken from the Joseph
narrative (Gen 37-50). Joseph was one of the twelve sons of Jacob.
29
When he was 17 years old, he was sold by his brothers into slavery. At the
age of 30, he became the second most powerful person in the whole of
Egypt. A story of a man’s success despite major setbacks in life.The Scriptures tell us clearly that the singular reason for Joseph’s success
at work was that
God was with him: the presence of the Lord.
Two key principles to remember:
1. Success and God’s presence go
together. When God is with a person, He delights in him and is pleased
to grant him success. This was the case for Joseph. Likewise for King
David.
30 After the Incarnation, Death, Resurrection and Ascension of
Jesus Christ, God the Father and God the Son sent God the Holy Spirit
to live in everyone who believes in Jesus.
31 Thus, God’s presence is with
every Christian to lead, guide and empower him to do God’s will for
God’s glory.
32 However, the Christian will need to submit to and obey
the Holy Spirit for success and fruitfulness.
33 2. Success comes from
keeping God’s Word. His Word is truth and guides His people in His
righteous ways. When God’s people carefully obey His Word, they will
experience God’s favour, protection and blessing.
34 When we consistently
live out God’s attributes of steadfast love and faithfulness in our lives, we
will enjoy favour and good success in the sight of God and man.
35
29 Genesis 35:22-26.
30 1 Samuel 18:14.
31 John 14:12-18
32 John 16:13-15; Acts 1:8; Ephesians 3:14-21.
33 Galatians 5:16-25.
34 Joshua 1:7-8; Psalm 1:1-3.
35 Proverbs 3:3-4.
