Managing What Belongs to Others

The story of Joseph is part of the grand narrative of God’s saving actions, leading all the way to our saviour, Jesus. It is a narrative about God’s faithfulness to his promise to Abraham – that through him all the families on the earth would be blessed. Joseph was right in the middle of the action; it was a grand theme larger than him, yet it included him.

With this background in mind what can we learn from Joesph’s life – how did he negotiate life in Egypt - what can we learn from the life and times of Joseph? In this series of reflections on his life, I present five lessons. There are more, no doubt, but these five are the ones that stand out to me. I trust they are helpful to you.

Joseph, from an early age, managed and cared for the property of others. This is evidenced in his brother’s mismanagement of their father’s flocks, which irked him because it meant something to him because it meant something to his father. Their irresponsibility towards the care of their father’s flocks was countered by Joseph’s respect and care for the same.

This is a clash of two worlds, two ways of seeing how the goods of another should be treated/managed, which ultimately manifested in their hateful reactions towards him for wanting to do the right thing for their father. This should never be a surprise as the diligence of one can serve as a rebuke to another. Many people wish to do the least possible for their employers, and they are quick to criticise anyone who has diligent work habits and attitudes, calling them crawlers, the boss’s lackey, and the like. This is more common than we are likely to admit. In doing so these employees only expose their own lack of integrity.

People who treat what belongs to another as though it belonged to them will invariably treat those goods with greater care. Carelessness shown in regard to the goods of another will conversely translate as carelessness towards what belongs to them. Needless to say, some business/company owners are abusive, and because of this their employees are discouraged and work without enthusiasm and commitment.[1]

The goods of another are not my property to treat casually, therefore they should be treated with care and respect. People who fail in this are never good employees, nor should they be tolerated – legislation that makes it difficult to let these people go, notwithstanding.

Joseph cared for the property and goods of men that he had little choice but to act diligently for. It wasn’t as though he had options such as leaving if he didn’t like them - he was a slave. His attitude is therefore even more commendable. We have choices and act like dissatisfied children, running from job to job, looking for optimal personal benefit. This is a poor motivator if it means managing to avoid the normal, the mundane, processes of personal growth and possible promotions.

I would be loath to employ anyone who had not proven themselves to act wisely in their previous employment.[2] It is of interest that Paul states a person wishing to be an elder must have a good report from people outside the confines of the church body.[3] Being a poor employee precludes one from the right to oversee and care for God’s church. How will that person act with care and diligence with the Lord’s church when they have failed to act exemplarily in secular/earthly and family matters.

Being a great employee has distinct benefits too. Joseph was constantly elevated because of his spirit, wisdom, and work ethic. He worked against the grain and prospered – even in the worst of circumstances. This may be the ultimate test for pampered Westerners – being faithful when working for unfaithful employers or little tyrants concerned only with themselves. It may seem unfair to call some bosses in today’s world tyrants yet that is how they act. Not everyone has the luxury of simply moving on to better options. If you can do it, but not all can.

It is salutary that both Joseph and Daniel outlasted their masters - those in ultimate power. They had an excellent spirit, and they knew how to administer what belonged to others. Not only so but what they administered they grew. They didn’t just shift chairs around – they organised with skill, helping the people their administration would influence, and making their masters more secure and/or wealthier.

The first lesson Joseph teaches us is that, despite our circumstances, we are to model faithfulness in regard to the property/possessions of those we serve. This glorifies God and ennobles us.

[1]Some business/company owners are abusive. Followers of Jesus are counselled against this sort of behaviour.

[2]Sadly, many CVs today don’t (can’t) give the complete picture for fear of litigation. You may have to read between the lines or call their previous employer and ask leading questions. They may be reluctant to say anything that blows back on them, but a few questions can convey what you need to know, and what you should know.

[3]1 Timothy 3.1-7