How can we recognize God's blessings in our workplace as Joseph did? Setting the Scene Joseph was a foreign slave in Potiphar’s house, yet Scripture records continuous favor over his work. His story shows that God’s blessing is not limited by geography, position, or job title. Verse Under the Microscope “From the time he put him in charge of his household and of all that he owned, the LORD blessed the household of the Egyptian because of Joseph. The LORD’s blessing was on everything he owned, both in the house and in the field.” (Genesis 39:5) Indicators of God’s Blessings in Our Work • Impact beyond ourselves – Potiphar’s whole household flourished “because of Joseph.” When coworkers, departments, or even customers thrive through your contributions, recognize God’s hand (cf. Proverbs 11:11). • Comprehensive fruitfulness – “Everything he owned” prospered. Watch for blessing that spreads from one project, to another, to the atmosphere of the entire workplace (Psalm 1:3). • Consistency over time – “From the time he put him in charge…” The blessing wasn’t a fluke but an ongoing reality. Sustained effectiveness points to divine favor, not mere luck (James 1:17). • Recognition from authorities – Potiphar saw something extraordinary and kept promoting Joseph (Genesis 39:3-4). When supervisors trust you with greater responsibility, see it as God shining His light through you (Matthew 5:16). Postures that Welcome and Recognize Blessing • Undivided loyalty to the Lord (Colossians 3:23-24) – Joseph worked “as unto the LORD,” so God could openly endorse him. • Integrity under pressure (Genesis 39:9) – He refused moral compromise, keeping the channel of blessing clear. • Diligent stewardship (Proverbs 16:3) – Commit plans to the Lord, then pursue excellence; God delights to prosper what is intentionally placed in His hands. • Humility in success (Daniel 6:3, 10) – Like Daniel later in Babylon, Joseph remained prayerful and dependent, redirecting credit to God. Guardrails Against Misreading Success • Blessing is not always measured in money or titles; peace, influence, and reputation are equally divine favors (Proverbs 22:1). • Periods of testing (such as Joseph’s prison time) do not negate earlier blessing; they prepare us for larger assignments (Romans 8:28). • If gain comes through dishonesty, it is not God’s blessing (Proverbs 10:22). Living Genesis 39:5 Today 1. Begin each workday acknowledging God’s presence and inviting His direction. 2. Look for ways your tasks can serve others, not just your résumé. 3. Keep short accounts with sin; unconfessed wrongdoing clouds our perception of God’s favor. 4. Celebrate visible outcomes, but also thank Him for hidden protections—mistakes averted, relationships preserved, opportunities arranged. 5. Share testimonies of workplace blessings so that colleagues see the Lord who still prospers “everything… in the house and in the field.” |
    |