Genesis 47:13-31
If Joseph were living today, he could appear on one of those business reality shows and win hands down. Joseph was wise, confident, focused, he listened to people, he was trustworthy, fair, and didn't operate on favoritism. No doubt about it, Joseph's life and actions show us a thing or two about leadership and being a Christian person involved in business.
So what was one thing that stood out to you about Joseph in this passage? In what areas do you need to model Joseph, and what can you do to start working on that? Tami W.
This demonstration of leadership is simply amazing to read.He had it all and the power that was given to him was not abused. This story encourages me that i too can become a successful business women by doing things God's way. I praise the lord for all his wisdom that he has bestowed on me to follow him as he leads me. I pray that we will all be obedient to the lord as he sets his laws and precepts for us to follow.
One thing that stands out to me from this passage is Joseph shrewdness/wisdom. It says to me that in business you need to look ahead and see how you can prepare better for tomorrow. Another thing that stood out was that he was fair.
He didnt just start with the most valuable possessions (land and bodies). He could have said to the people from very eary, "listen, the food is worth more than money, give me land". No instead, I get the feeling that he tried not to go that route unless he had to. That looks like integrity to me.
As a businessman, Joseph accepted what the Egyptians had to offer the Pharoah: first their land, then their labor. He allowed them their dignity, and as the faithful servant from the parable did, grew his master's fortune.
At the same time, the Egyptians were responsible for their own livelihood: they gave Pharoah one-fifth and kept four-fifths. We must earn our own bread, though God will give us our opportunities.
Frank from the comment above hit on exactly what struck me. The Egyptians did go to pharaoh for help but didn't expect free handouts. They were willing to give what they have to protect their families. Unfortunately we see very little of this in our culture to day. Many are taught to rely on everyone else without lifting a hand to help themselves. Anyway what a great story to start the day with.
Joseph was single minded and stuck to the task God had given him. Feed the people and keep his family alive. God was saving Joseph and his family to bring the Savior to the world. Sometimes I miss the purpose of God by looking at all the other things around me both good and evil that concern all of us. God help me see my purpose in your plan and give me the discipline to stick to it today.
I agree with Frank about how too many people today rely and expect others to take care of them. Even Ruth and the poor people had to glean the fields for 'their share' in order to eat; the field owners purposefully left some grain for the poor people but did not glean it for them. Also, jumping out at me is the 20%. It makes me contemplate that it might be nice if we had a flat rate tax system, would this be a good percentage?
Excellent points Bea. I see that Joseph had foresight, and he also saved the extra, only living off of what was needed. Farmers throughout time always understand this principle, but other's don't seem to understand. In a business or a personal life, saving the excess and never consuming more than you earn will lead to success.