Overcoming Work
People all around us are watching to see what kind of Christian we are and one of the best places to demonstrate the authenticity of our faith is in the workplace. We feel bound to our jobs to make a living; many feel enslaved to their job.
Genesis 39:1-6 tells of Joseph’s arrival in Egypt. Joseph had been attacked by his brothers and sold as a slave. He ended up in Egypt, bought by the captain of Pharaoh’s guard, Potiphar. Dealing with a new culture and language in slavery, he easily may have asked, “Where is God?” It was 13 years before Joseph was delivered from bondage. Joseph trusted God to overcome the challenges he faced as a slave in Egypt. Three things happen when you trust God in the workplace. First, God gives you His presence—“The LORD was with Joseph.” (Genesis 39:2) Joseph may or may not have felt God’s presence, but still he trusted God. And verse 3 records the witness: “And his master saw that the LORD was with him.” How many times do circumstances become tough and believers fall away instead of turning to God? Second, God gives you success—“the LORD made all he did to prosper in his hand.” (Genesis 39:3) After a time of persecution, Joseph experienced success. He moved from being a simple slave to an attendant in the house; from attendant to managing the household; from managing the household to overseeing everything Potiphar owned. If you want favor in your boss’ eyes, let Jesus shine through you. The result may be more responsibility, recognition, a good reputation, a convincing witness to Jesus Christ. Third, God gives you blessing in your workplace—“the LORD blessed the Egyptian’s house for Joseph’s sake.” (Genesis 39:5) Potiphar was not a child of God, yet he prospered because of Joseph’s actions and faith. Potiphar noticed that God blessed Joseph, so he gave him more responsibility. And God received glory!
Sin cera, Erik
Erik O. Garthe is Associate Pastor at Canton Baptist Church in Baltimore, Maryland.