Lessons from Joseph’s Rise to Prosperity test
Welcome to The Bible Money Journal, a brief for Christian professionals who want to learn more about God’s ways of managing money. In each edition, I share a verse, a story, and a money lesson to help you in your journey.
This brief is a resource for navigating the scriptures through the lens of financial planning and learning how to apply them in your life.
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Genesis 41:39-41, 48, 56-57
39 Then Pharaoh said to Joseph, “Since God has revealed the meaning of the dreams to you, clearly no one else is as intelligent or wise as you are. 40 You will be in charge of my court, and all my people will take orders from you. Only I, sitting on my throne, will have a rank higher than yours.”
41 Pharaoh said to Joseph, “I hereby put you in charge of the entire land of Egypt.”
48 During those years, Joseph gathered all the crops grown in Egypt and stored the grain from the surrounding fields in the cities.
56 So with severe famine everywhere, Joseph opened up the storehouses and distributed grain to the Egyptians, for the famine was severe throughout the land of Egypt. 57 And people from all around came to Egypt to buy grain from Joseph because the famine was severe throughout the world.
In this passage, we encounter Joseph, a man who, through God's divine intervention, rose from the pit of slavery to become a prominent figure in ancient Egypt. Pharaoh, the ruler of Egypt, had a troubling dream that left him anxious and searching for answers. None of his wise men or magicians could provide a satisfactory interpretation until Joseph, through the wisdom bestowed upon him by God, offered a solution.
Recognizing the Significance of Divine Gifts
Joseph understood the importance of acknowledging the talents and gifts bestowed upon him by God. Similarly, each of us possesses unique abilities, skills, and knowledge. As a mid or late-career professional, it is crucial to identify and leverage these gifts to excel in your chosen field. Reflect upon your strengths, embrace them, and seek opportunities that align with your talents.
Prudent Financial Planning
Joseph's interpretation of Pharaoh's dream was not limited to spiritual insights; it had significant economic implications. He foresaw seven years of abundance followed by seven years of severe famine. Joseph's financial acumen allowed him to devise a comprehensive plan to mitigate the impact of the impending crisis. This is why I call Joseph the original financial planner. Long before there was a CFP® designation, Joseph was teaching us how to create a solid financial plan.
It is essential for you to engage in thoughtful financial planning, setting aside resources during prosperous times to safeguard against unforeseen challenges in the future. If you need help, let’s talk about developing a robust financial strategy tailored to your specific circumstances and long-term goals.
Embracing Stewardship and Responsibility
As Pharaoh recognized Joseph's wisdom, he appointed him as the overseer of Egypt's affairs, placing him in a position of great responsibility. Joseph's role as a steward required him to manage the nation's resources wisely, ensuring the well-being of its people.
As a Christian financial advisor, I urge you to embrace the concept of stewardship in your own financial journey. Understand that your wealth is a blessing, and it is your responsibility to manage it wisely. Adopt a stewardship mindset, considering not only your own financial well-being but also the impact of your decisions on others. Seek opportunities to give generously, supporting causes that align with your values and make a positive difference in the lives of those around you.
The Stewardship Journey
The story of Joseph serves as a powerful reminder that wisdom, coupled with faithful stewardship, can lead to remarkable prosperity. By acknowledging our God-given gifts, engaging in prudent financial planning, and embracing our role as responsible stewards, we can navigate the complexities of our financial lives with confidence and purpose.
Leo Marte is a Christian financial advisor and CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™. Abundant Advisors provides financial advice for Christians with convenient virtual meetings. Let’s talk if you are ready to make the next move.