“Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.” – Matthew 5:8 (NIV)
Brothers and sisters, God is not looking for the most talented or most famous among us. God looks at the heart, which must remain pure. It is a lifelong calling. In the account of Joseph in Genesis, his pure heart was not proven in a church, but through tests. And one of these can be found in Genesis 39:6-12.
A clean heart gets tested through waiting, promotion, betrayal, money, temptation, and power.
Testing in Waiting (When God Seems Silent)
Joseph passed his temptation test but was tossed into prison, and it seems as if he was forgotten there for years. He interpreted the dreams of the chief cupbearer and the baker, and it seemed as if he was forgotten again. Despite this, Joseph trusted God and remained faithful. Never a murmur was recorded.
Testing in Promotion (Power and Wealth)
When Joseph was promoted to second only to Pharaoh, he remained humble, acknowledging that it’s God who gives the answers (Genesis 41:16). Joseph served in humility and did not allow pride to control him despite having access to greater wealth, titles, and ultimate power. Will you still give God the glory?
Testing in Power (Forgiveness vs. Revenge)
Joseph had the power to take revenge; he had the power to kill his brothers. Instead, he fed them. He said, “You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good…” (Genesis 45 – 50:20).
Testing in Betrayal (Genesis 37)
Joseph’s siblings sold him, and Potiphar’s wife lied about him. Will you keep hatred and malice, or will you forgive? A dirty heart keeps records, a clean heart releases and stays pure. Our hearts will be tested in every season, but we must remember Joseph’s example.
Believers:
- When you feel unappreciated or when your hard work goes unnoticed, do not give up or become bitter.
- When success is experienced, promotion is secured or financial stability is gained, guard against arrogance. Help and elevate others.
- When you have gained an advantage over someone who has hurt you, choose grace over revenge.
- When people break your trust, consciously decide to release the hatred. Protect your spiritual and emotional well-being. It leads to eternal life.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, create in me a clean heart, keep me pure in temptation, and grant me strength in seasons of waiting. When You seem silent, teach me to trust Your perfect timing. Help me to remain humble in times of blessings and merciful when given power. Let me see Your hand in every season of my life in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Read: Proverbs 18:12; 1 Peter 5:5-6
Bible Reading Guide: Psalm 119:73-80; 1 Timothy 6:3-21; Jeremiah 46; Jeremiah 47