Read today’s texts first: Genesis 39-41; Luke 16
Doing every job for the “King of Kings”
redefines our work ethic!
redefines our work ethic!
The parable of the Unjust Steward in Luke 16 concludes with the memorable “no one can serve two masters.” The choice is God or mammon (13). Most people choose the latter, settling for careers based on income. In contrast, as an instructor at a Bible college, I was always amazed to hear from students about their dream of being a pastor, in spite of the financial compensation, or lack thereof.
Joseph should be their inspiration. Despite his undeserved misfortunes, Joseph decided he would serve God regardless. Whether he was technically working for Potipher, the chief jailer, or Pharoah himself, he was really working for God. Each of Joseph’s employers recognized that he was much more than your average union worker (39:3,21;41:40,41). Working for the King of Kings redefines the term “work ethic.” Because of their trust in Joseph, he was given carte blanche, with no need for their close supervision (39:6,23; 41:42,43).
The most telling evidence of Joseph’s allegiance to his God was his response to Potipher’s wife. In a day when sex was even more casual than our day, Joseph refused her advances. He started his defense by talking about the trust of her husband, his boss, but ended with this question: “how can I do this great evil and sin against God?” He knew that he was ultimately accountable to one person only – his God. When we serve God alone, we will be a just steward, worthy of anyone’s trust.
“Lord, I want to grow so close to You this year that my first allegiance is always to You. Whatever I do and whoever I work for, may I remember that You are always my boss!”
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