Secret of Real Success

Last night we studied the story of Joseph in the Bible (Genesis 37-50). From age 17 to 30, Joseph went through a lot of traumatic experiences: He was pushed into a pit and then sold into salvery by his brothers, tempted and accused by his master's wife, put into prison by his master, and forgotten by the cupbearer whose dream he interpreted. Yet through all his difficulties, Joseph achieved success in whatever circumstances he was placed into. He survived. No, he triumphed. He was put in charge of the whole land of Egypt and saved the lives of many people, including his dad, brothers, and their families.

What is Joseph's secret of success in the toughest of times?

The LORD was with Joseph and he prospered ... When his master saw that the LORD was with him and that the LORD gave him success in everything he did, Joseph found favor in his eyes ... (Genesis 39:2-4)

Joseph's master took him and put him in prison ... But while Joseph was there in the prison, the LORD was with him; he showed him kindness and granted him favor in the eyes of the prison warden. So the warden put Joseph in charge ... because the LORD was with Joseph and gave him success in whatever he did. (Genesis 39:20-23)

The plan seemed good to Pharaoh and to all his officials. So Pharaoh asked them, "Can we find anyone like this man, one in whom is the spirit of God?" Then Pharaoh said to Joseph, "Since God has made all this known to you, there is no one so discerning and wise as you. You shall be in charge of my palace, and all my people are to submit to your orders. Only with respect to the throne will I be greater than you." (Genesis 41:37-40)

Copyright © 2006 Winnis Chiang, Parenting ABC