The Secret of Success

How much do you rely on talent or skill? It's actually the presence of God in your life that brings success. Keep Reading...

Genesis 39:2-4 - The Lord was with Joseph and he prospered, and he lived in the house of his Egyptian master. When his master saw that the Lord was with him and that the Lord gave him success in everything he did, Joseph found favor in his eyes and became his attendant. Potiphar put him in charge of his household, and he entrusted to his care everything he owned.

Genesis 41:39-40 - Then Pharaoh said to Joseph, “Since God has made all this known to you, there is no one so discerning and wise as you. You shall be in charge of my palace, and all my people are to submit to your orders. Only with respect to the throne will I be greater than you.”

Joseph had a rocky beginning. He tried to take leadership in the family, and it backfired. Genesis 37:2 He had dreams that his family sneered at. Genesis 37:8 He hardly seemed like a future ruler of a mighty nation.

In this chaotic family where rejection and hatred permeated relationships, Joseph found himself sold off as a slave in Egypt. It was here that we begin noticing the marks of God's favor. For in the midst of Joseph's captivity, the Lord was with him granting him success, even in his menial duties.

God's favor brings success in the hardest of situations. Joseph rose in Potiphar's house as a leader, not because of inherent ability, but because of God's favor. Even in the prison, Joseph rose as a leader, as God's presence was so evident on him. And it was God who brought the interpretation of dreams through Joseph. Eventually, this ability to interpret dreams led Jospeh to rule over Egypt.

Do you find yourself seeking skills and titles? Do you think that success will come through your own effort? It is true that a measure of outward success can come through sheer determination. But, the real outcome of human-centered determination is shattered relationships.

It is the presence of God and his favor that brings ultimate success. When you are in step with his desires - with the movement of his kingdom - you will know his rich presence. And you will know success.

Pursue more of his presence than building your portfolio. Call out for the Lord's favor rather than the applause of men. He is the difference-maker and the bringer of success. What he touches through you will turn to gold.