The Secret to Genuine Success

Daily Devotional – Monday, October 2, 2023
The LORD was with him; and whatever he did, the LORD made it prosper.
Genesis 39:23 (NKJV)

In a past devotional, we learned that if you are hardworking, honest, and committed, and you trust God in whatever you do, you are successful. Joseph, the son of Jacob, was a successful man despite being a slave. While he lacked material possessions, he was fully committed to whatever was placed in his hands.

Whatever He Did, the LORD Made it Prosper

How did Joseph manage to be so successful? You ask. Well, his story reveals the secret to genuine success. Incidentally, it took another twist in the life of Jacob’s favourite son for the secret to emerge. Accused unfairly of attempted rape, Joseph found himself in an Egyptian jail.

Here is Moses’ narration:
“But the LORD was with Joseph and showed him mercy, and He gave him favor in the sight of the keeper of the prison. And the keeper of the prison committed to Joseph’s hand all the prisoners who were in the prison; whatever they did there, it was his doing. The keeper of the prison did not look into anything that was under Joseph’s authority, because the LORD was with him; and whatever he did, the LORD made it prosper.” (Genesis 39:21-23).

The Source of True Prosperity

Just as it was in Potiphar’s house, the person in charge delegated all responsibilities to Joseph. The last verse explains the reason, although both Potiphar and the keeper of the jail were oblivious to it. God was with Joseph and prospered the young man in whatever he did. The Egyptian officials could not resist assigning Joseph responsibilities.

Notice two issues in verse 13. Joseph did his part. He worked diligently. He pleased his supervisors and the people under him. In turn, God was with him and prospered him. Right there is the secret to real prosperity. It is the union of human effort with divine power. When man stretches out his hand to hold God’s hand, the outcome is God-approved prosperity.

The Secret to Genuine Success

Do you have plans, goals, and projects that you want God bless? Be like Joseph. Make sure you play your part as faithfully and diligently as possible, and allow God to do the rest. As long as your endeavours are aligned with God’s plans, you will succeed. Remember, the secret to genuine success is the union of human effort and God’s help and favour.

Prayer
Dear God, empower me to do my best and allow you to do the rest.