A Diligent Heart - A Story about Joseph

Joseph was a man sold into slavery by his brothers because they were jealous of the favouritism he was shown by his father Jacob. He ends up at Potiphar’s house and because God’s favour was upon him, he worked diligently for Potiphar that he was promoted to the head of his household. Potiphar also did not concern himself with any of the work that was under Joseph’s care because Joseph did an outstanding job. (Genesis 39)

Under unfortunate circumstances Joseph ended up in prison because he would not give in to Potiphar’s wife’s seduction. In prison he was put in charge of the other prisoners and again the prison warder did not concern himself with anything under Joseph’s care. He did his work diligently and had no need to be supervised or followed up.

Joseph was a man and for that reason alone we know that he was not perfect. However, he did display some good qualities that we can learn from. If you are an employer, Joseph would be the kind of employee you long for. If you are a parent, most likely the kind of first born child you would like to have.

Some lessons we can draw from Joseph’s life…

1. Do your best with or without supervision.
2. Regardless of your position and circumstances, be excellent.
3. When everyone else is mediocre, choose to stand out and exceed expectations.
4. Don’t just do what you have been asked to, but go above and beyond the call of duty.
5. God grants us favour to do our work diligently. He equips and enables us to be people of excellence. Seek Him in prayer to guide and enable you.
6. Our goal in life should be to live a life that is pleasing and honoring to God our Father and work done diligently will glorify God.

A few verses to consider;

1. Matthew 5:48 Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.
2. Colossians 3:23 Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.
3. Proverbs 12:24 Diligent hands will rule, but laziness ends in forced labour
4. 1 Corinthians 10:31 So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.