Thoughts in Worship

Message Magazine's Online Devotional for Thursday, July 30, 2015

Based Upon Genesis 39:1–4

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“And Joseph was brought down to Egypt; and Potiphar, an officer of Pharaoh, captain of the guard, an Egyptian, bought him of the hands of the Ishmeelites, which had brought him down thither. And the LORD was with Joseph, and he was a prosperous man; and he was in the house of his master the Egyptian. And his master saw that the LORD was with him, and that the LORD made all that he did to prosper in his hand. And Joseph found grace in his sight, and he served him: and he made him overseer over his house, and all that he had he put into his hand.”

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The saga of Joseph’s life continues with him finally touching down in Egypt. Through all he had experienced; the envy and mistreatment from his own brothers; their betrayal into the hands of the Ishmaelites and Egyptians; the obvious disregard for the heart of their father by lying about Joseph’s death, etc., the Bible says that the Lord was with Joseph. Not only was He with Him, but He also made Joseph’s work to prosper. Not only did God make his work to prosper, but He also made him a witness. Even Joseph’s new master recognized the mysterious call of God on his life. So Potiphar made Joseph the manager of all he had. This is amazing! Not too long before, Joseph was despised and rejected by his own brothers. But, now, Joseph was highly esteemed and well favored. The Lord was with Him.

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The Bible says that we are to be the salt of the earth. Further, it says that we are to be lights on a hill that cannot be hidden. And this, so that people can be closer drawn to God through our example. There are times in our lives when we all meet extreme adversity. Things do not always go the way we would expect. Our closest friends, or maybe even our own relatives may betray us. We may wonder if donning the beautiful coat of Christ’s righteous character is worth it, since the fact does not always land us in desirable situations. If there is one thing that I am learning from a fresh look at Joseph’s story, it’s this: No matter the details of our experiences in life, whether trial or triumph, if we keep our faith in God, He will be with us.

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The lesson for us today is that our focus must remain heavenward if we ever hope to be effective examples and ministers earthward. God’s plan for all of us is that we invest quality time with Him every single day, no matter how great or difficult life gets. And through that investment of time in His presence, we will be able to preserve the lives of many around us and direct them to the Lord, who gave Himself for them. Our witness must be practical. God set Joseph up to influence Potiphar, and eventually, all who were under the influence of Egypt, in tangible ways. He was a wise manager of earthly resources, because of his relationship with God. He was a trustworthy employee, because of his relationship with God. He was a good character example, because of his relationship with God. He was an overall humble servant to all, because of his relationship with God.

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I am encouraged by Joseph's story. I am making the commitment today, to be a servant of the King of the universe, so I can be more useful to all with whom I come into contact. How about you?--L. David Harris (www.davidwritesalot.com)