Thoughts from daily Bible reading for today- February 18, 2009
“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 and became his attendant. Potiphar put him in charge of his household, and he entrusted to his care everything he owned.” Genesis 39:3-4
The Lord’s favor rests on His followers who remain faithful to Him. It is humbling to know that God extends wisdom and grace to those who go hard after Him. Though someone is separated from loved ones by a long distance, the Lord is near by to impart His calming presence. Rest assured Jesus brings success to souls who submit to His will.
Moreover, favor with God leads to favor with man. A heart connection on earth takes place when there has been a heart connection in heaven. People of influence are on the look out for those whom they can trust. It is not a small thing to delegate management and leadership responsibilities—hence those with character are entrusted with more.
“Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much, and whoever is dishonest with very little will also be dishonest with much” (Luke 16:10).
Therefore, stay faithful in your responsibilities as a servant leader at work and at home. It’s a joyful attitude in the middle of junk that Jesus blesses. Your boss may be unreasonable, your spouse insensitive, or your child disrespectful, but the Lord and discerning people see your humble heart—and will reward you with respect, rest and responsibility.
What are you to do when God prospers you and your family? What are His eternal expectations? Certainly the Lord looks for His glory to be revealed through a life that reflects praise and thanksgiving. When we smash the idols of materialism, sex and power—and replace them with modest living, love and service—people want to know why. Questions about our “peculiar” lifestyle are meant to point people to Jesus.
“Dear friends, I urge you, as foreigners and exiles, to abstain from sinful desires, which wage war against your soul. Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us” (1 Peter 2:11-12).
So, instead of seeking the world’s favor—submit to God’s authority—and His favor will follow. Blessings become bountiful in a life that longs to love the Lord and people. Like the moon is a reflection of the sun’s light, be a reflection of the Son’s light—you will illuminate the Lord’s ways to worldly wisdom and to wayward souls. The Lord is on the lookout to extend His blessings on those who fear Him. Trust Jesus and love people.
“The Lord’s hand was with them, and a great number of people believed and turned to the Lord” (Acts 11:21).
Am I in a position of humble obedience and trust, so that I can experience the favor of God?
Related Readings: 1 Chronicles 28:19; Isaiah 62:3; Luke 1:66; 1 John 2:8-10
Additional Resource: Download your free e-book, Wisdom for Dads: Eleven Daddy/Daughter dates in 2011, click here… http://bit.ly/hSDSk8
Additional Resource: Learn from Russ Crosson’s video blog, “Raising godly sons”, click here… http://bit.ly/ik4tjV
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I really needed this today. I am a married wife and mother of two sons. My older son is an atheist despite his Christian upbringing, my younger son is also extremely defiant. I have been feeling so alone and guilty lately questioning every parenting move I have made. My husband is a very successful business executive who travels quite frequently and doesn’t have much of a voice with our sons and much sensitivity at times for me. I feel like I have allowed everyone to become extremely spoiled and selfish because I made the mistake of serving them first instead of God.
I will continue to read this message time and again for encouragement and guidance from the Lord. Thank you.