READ: GENESIS 50: 14-20
“As far as I am concerned, God turned into good what you meant for evil. He brought me to the high position I have today so that I could save the lives of many people.” (V. 20)
A career in law enforcement requires that you progress “through the ranks” to eventually hold command positions–those of greater responsibility and authority. By the same token, one can elect to stop at any level where they feel satisfaction and personal career fulfillment. But no matter the course you choose, everyone seeks to pursue some type of career enhancement beyond the foundation building entry levels.
Rising “through the ranks “provides the necessary training, experiences, skills, wisdom and discernment to truly become an effective police officer. The progression in rank and status provides one with the opportunities to make and strengthen bonds of professional friendship and trust; to become an integral and effective team member; to become highly proficient in the skills required of a quality officer; to gain an understanding of how they contribute to the success or failure of the department; to learn an implement effective leadership skills; and to fully comprehend the responsibilities and expectations associated with being an accepted member of the ‘unique police family.” Becoming a professional police officer requires time, dedication, discipline and the willingness to move forward on the career ladder one rung at a time—there are just no other acceptable alternative courses of action! While there have been a few so-called “Professional Chiefs,” who have been able to take short cuts to the top thanks to a political “Godfather,” the vast majority of people holding high level positions of authority and responsibility have paid their dues and moved slowly and steadily to the top. Their advancement has produced men and women who care about their community, department and those that serve under their command. It’s not just another Chiefs job!
Joseph would have been one of the folks who moved up “through the ranks” even though he had the ultimate career maker, God, on his side. It was God who moved him purposefully from slave; to prisoner; to a court advisor; to Egypt’s top Administrative Officer second in power and authority only to Pharaoh. God knew, and Joseph trusted, that he needed to understand and experience the complexities of life at all levels in order for him to be successful at the highest level of government. This slow but steady progression from marginalized slave to second in command of a great empire, gave him the insight and acumen needed to save many lives—a task God had intended for him to perform from day one. Joseph understood that it was the mercy, grace and love of God that took him from a pit to a throne!!
PAUSE FOR REFLECTION AND PRAYER
Who are you relying upon to help you advance through your life? Joseph would give you a one-word answer—GOD!
Dear God, without attachment to your vine of life I can do nothing on my own. Help me accept your will for my life as I steadily advance through the ranks toward Heaven.