Workplace Success Secrets

Two Practical Workplace Success Secrets From Joseph
Genesis 39:2-4

39:2 "The Lord was with Joseph, so he became a successful man."

Success Secret #1 - Stay Close To God, Put Him First
The most critical component of Joseph´s success was never in his looks, abilities or talents but in his relationship with God. We cannot have a relationship with someone without getting to know them. Difficult as it may be at times due to the demands of our workloads and schedules, we need spend time with God strengthen our relationship. The only practical way to do this: Reading His word and praying.

39:3-4 "Now his master saw that the Lord was with him and how the Lord caused all that he did to prosper in his hand...So Joseph found favor in his sight and became his personal servant; and he made him overseer over his house, and all that he owned he put in his charge."

Success Secret #2 - Glorify God In Our Work by Working as Unto Him
The favor Joseph enjoyed from his master, was a result of his master realizing that God was with Joseph. Looking at these verses I couldn´t help but wonder how Joseph´s master was able to discern that God was with him until I remembered a couple of verses from the book of Matthew and Colossians.

Matthew 5:16 "Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven."

Colossians 3:23 "Whatever you do, do your work heartily, as for the Lord rather than for men..."

As believers excellence is not an option for us it is a natural by-product of our relationship with God. The motivation behind this excellence is the fact that what we do we do for Him. The questions I need to ask myself here is: How much excellence have I been putting into my work lately? Have I been working in a way that those who see my work and me at work would be able to give glory to God?

Unfortunately, in both areas I´ve failed many times. Good thing I read this as I was taking my lunch and its a new year. Time for some long overdue changes!