Genesis 39:2, 23 tell us of the success that God gave to Joseph both in the house of Potiphar and in prison after being falsely accused by Potiphar's wife. The word in the OT language speaks of “accomplishing satisfactorily what is intended” (Theological Workbook of the Old Testament, Volume 2, page 766). In other words, God was fulfilling His purpose in Joseph's life. Whatever definition one may use for the word "success," God defines success as His purpose being fulfilled in our lives. Scripture uses the same word in Joshua 1:8 where God promises Joshua "success" if he obeys the Scriptures. It is also the word used in Isaiah 55:11 where God says that His word shall not return to Him "empty, but it shall accomplish that which I purpose, and shall succeed in the thing for which I sent it."
The temptation Joseph faced was an attempt by Satan to thwart the plan of God, just as Satan attempted to thwart God's plan for Christ in tempting Him. Every temptation requires a response. Do I choose success, “accomplishing satisfactorily what is intended” by God, or do I choose to hinder His intended purpose?
Monday, November 17, 2008
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