Another week. Another chance to live for Christ in the workplace. Yesterday's Sunday School lesson covered the story of Joseph being sold into slavery, his rise to power, his imprisonment, his return to power and his reconciliation with his brothers.
Although not the focus of the lesson, I was struck by the following verses: Genesis 39:3, 21-22. In this collection of verses Joseph is shown to be such an adept worker that he is put in charge of first Potiphar's household, then in charge of the king's prison. What makes this remarkable is that in the first instance he is a foreign slave and in the second instance he is actually a prisoner!
Of all the Old Testament characters, Joseph would appear to have the most reason to be bitter, angry and unhappy. Sold into slavery by his brothers, only to rise to power in the household of the captain of the guard in Egypt. Then after achieving a place of prominence, he is cast into prison for NOT sleeping with the boss's wife! Yet in each instance scripture tells us "the LORD was with him".
Knowing that "the LORD was with him" gave Joseph the confidence and peace of mind to be the conscientious, competent worker that allowed him to be successful no matter what his situation.
Every Christian in the workplace should strive on a daily basis to be the best employee. All the deadlines of a Christian should be met and reports done well. No break room conversation should ever be negative. Workplace gossip should have no place in a Christian's water cooler conversations. Decisions should be led by the Holy Spirit.
Whether a Christian works in a prison or in Pharaoh's palace, he should the type of employee that bosses love to have on staff-- not with a promotion or raise in mind, but to bring glory to God.
As a new workweek is beginning, please pray that I will be a Joseph working for R-12.
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