What qualities in Joseph can we emulate to gain trust from others? Scripture Focus “Joseph found favor in his sight and became his personal attendant. Potiphar put him in charge of his household and entrusted everything he owned to the care of Joseph.” (Genesis 39:4) This verse records, with historical accuracy, the moment Potiphar looked at Joseph’s life and saw qualities so trustworthy that he handed over every responsibility in his estate. Observations on Joseph’s Character • Scripture repeatedly says “the LORD was with Joseph” (Genesis 39:2, 21), anchoring every virtue that follows. • Potiphar’s immediate and escalating trust shows Joseph’s reliability was visible and consistent. • The trust placed in Joseph extended to “everything he owned,” signaling comprehensive competence, not partial or selective. Qualities to Emulate Today • Consistent Integrity – Joseph refused compromise (Genesis 39:9). – Proverbs 3:3-4: “Never let loving devotion and faithfulness leave you… then you will find favor and high regard in the sight of God and man.” • Diligent Work Ethic – Joseph served as a slave yet worked “prosperously” (Genesis 39:3). – Colossians 3:23: “Whatever you do, work at it with your whole being, for the Lord…” • Visible Excellence – Potiphar “observed that the LORD caused all that he did to prosper” (Genesis 39:3). – Proverbs 22:29 speaks of the diligent standing before kings. • Humble Stewardship – Joseph handled another man’s possessions without self-promotion. – Luke 16:10: “Whoever is faithful with very little will also be faithful with much.” • God-Centered Faithfulness – Joseph’s loyalty flowed from honor toward God first (Genesis 39:9). – Daniel 6:4 shows a similar pattern in Daniel’s life, proving this trait transcends circumstances. How These Qualities Build Trust • Integrity assures others they will not be deceived. • Diligence demonstrates commitment to shared goals. • Excellence delivers tangible results that people can see and count on. • Humble stewardship shifts focus from personal gain to the well-being of those served. • God-centered faithfulness roots character in something unchanging, making reliability durable under pressure. Living It Out This Week • Guard every decision with uncompromising honesty, even in unnoticed moments. • Approach each task—large or small—with wholehearted effort, recognizing work as service to the Lord. • Seek quality over shortcuts, aiming for outcomes that tangibly bless others. • Treat responsibilities, resources, and relationships as trusts from God, not personal possessions. • Keep communion with the Lord central, drawing strength to remain faithful regardless of circumstance. |
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