Bible Studies
RIGHTEOUSNESS IN THE MARKETPLACE
Read Genesis 39:1-10; 41:22-40 and 50:15-21
Introduction:
Long ago, the prophet Micah defined "righteousness" as "acting justly, loving mercy and walking humbly with our God." We want to take a look at how to do this in our places of work by considering Joseph - a man, who because of his seeking to live righteously at work, won the trust and respect of an entire nation.
Joseph was invited by his boss's wife to go to bed with her. He spent two years in prison on a trumped up charge. He eventually was promoted by the Pharaoh to oversee national agricultural production and the collection of taxes. During a devastating famine, Joseph was responsible for world food distribution. His brothers who had sold him into slavery years ago, now begged him to give them some food for the family. Joseph had a perfect chance to enjoy some easy sex. He had a perfect chance to learn evil ways to beat and extort the system. He had a perfect chance to accumulate much wealth. He had a perfect chance to seek revenge on his brothers. But in every case, Joseph made a tough but righteous choice.
Quiet Time:
1. In each passage, what are the righteous choices Joseph made?
2. What righteous or moral choices have you been confronted with recently? What could the righteous thing be to do in each case for you? What courage and/or help do you need to do it?
3. What examples have you seen of people who have sought to live righteously at their places of work?
Worship and Reflection:
In today's marketplace, what are some of the common situations that confront us and force us to make a righteous (or moral) choice? What situations tempt us to make an unrighteous (or immoral) choice. What are your experiences regarding righteousness on campus or on the job? Take time to worship the Lord as the Righteous One - the one who desires justice and mercy. Ask Him to help you make righteous choices like Joseph.
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