Genesis 39:2-3; 41:37-40

One of the Biblical stories that illustrate success in life is the story of Joseph in the Old Testament. But before attaining success, he experienced difficult situations. He was rejected, sold into slavery, tempted, imprisoned, and the list goes on. He became the second highest command in Egypt. He planned and implemented solutions to the problem Egypt had to face. He became successful.

What are the principles of success that we can learn from Joseph’s life?

1. High Level of Spiritual Maturity

There are phrases to prove that Joseph possessed a high level of faith and spiritual maturity. In Genesis 39:2-3 “The Lord was with Joseph and he prospered…” “When his master saw that the Lord was with him and that the Lord gave him success in everything he did.” These words are repeated in some other passages like in verse 21 and in verse 23.

Another indication that Joseph had a strong faith in the Lord was the way he positively responded to difficult circumstances. He did not rebel against the Lord, instead, he consistently trusted Him. The Spirit was with him. He had a strong faith in God. He was considered a spiritually mature person. It is also fair to say that he was close to God.

To attain a high level of spiritual maturity should be the goal for all of us. We should always desire to have a close relationship with the Lord. This is a principle that would give us success.

2. High Level of “Financial” Intelligence

Pharaoh’s comment to Joseph in Genesis 41:39 “Since God has made all this known to you, there is no one so discerning and wise as you.” That comment is just a part of Pharaoh’s appreciation to Joseph because of his genius solution to a problem. The future problem is anticipated because Joseph is able to interpret the dream of Pharaoh. There will be seven years of abundance and followed by seven years of famine.

Joseph laid down a wise solution to the upcoming problem. He suggested that they need to set aside a fifth of all crops (v.34); they will build store cities (v.35);  reserve for hard times, and reserve for business. When the seven years of abundance came, all the surrounding nations were enjoying their crops, but Egypt was saving and restoring food. When the seven years of famine came, “all of the world” came to Egypt to buy in order for them to live.

If we read business books and biographies or study the successful business people in the world, one of the common foundations of their success is financial education or financial literacy. It is not about formal education, that is going to college and get degrees, but educating ourselves from various forms: seminars, books, conferences, and etc.

Do you want to succeed in life? Be like Joseph. Apply these principles in your life.

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