This week I wrap up the fifth c in succcccess, the first four being curiosity, creativity, competence and collaboration. You can catch up on any you didn't read here, but let's move on to this fifth and final c and wrap this series up!
THE WINNER IS
When I think of one who had to perservere and endure but who was totally committed to God's plan, I think the winner is Joseph in Genesis. Joseph had his visions from God indicating that he would lead his family when he was just 17 years of age. After that, all hell and parts of heaven broke loose for him and before he knew it, his brothers had sold him into slavery, then covered their deed with their family by concocting a story that Joseph had been devoured by a wild animal.
Joseph prospered in Potiphar's house and then languished in prison until he was 30 years old. It was then that Pharaoh had his two dreams and Joseph was summoned to the palace to interpret the dreams. Joseph not only interpreted that there would be seven bountiful years and then seven of famine, but he also came up with a plan that pleased Pharaoh of how to prepare for those lean years. Joseph went from the dungeon to the palace in a matter of minutes, but he had been in Egypt for 13 years up to that point.
It the story ended there, it would be a good one - but it doesn't! Joseph serves Egypt during the seven good years, storing up grain and establishing Pharaoh's throne. Then the lean years begin and Joseph's family, not knowing he is alive or in Egypt, came down to buy food. They appear before Joseph and he recognizes them, but they don't recognize him. Joseph told his brothers, "I will provide for you there, because five years of famine are still to come. Otherwise you and your household and all who belong to you will become destitute" (Genesis 45:11).
What's my point? Joseph was 39 when his brothers came to get food and he revealed himself to them. That means he lived in his dreams before they became reality for 22 years. Can you wait for your dream that long, preparing for the day when it will come to pass?
YOU MAY BE NEXT
If you have done all you can do, are you prepared to wait? Are you committed to see succcccess in the long run, whether that is in business, ministry, publishing or some other purpose expression? You can be the next Joseph, if you are willing to pay the price for succcccess as I have spelled out over the last five weeks. Like Joseph, you can wait long, but then have your life change for the better in five minutes.
I am 61 years old, and I have yet to see some of the things I believe God put in my heart. That is why I keep writing, praying, learning and growing. I am committed to do what it takes to see my dreams, and that may mean I see them from another vantage point after I am gone to be with Him. Whatever it takes, I won't give up.
I invite you to join me in the pursuit of succcccess. Let's not stop until we run as far and fast and as long as we can, as He empowers us. I hope these last five weeks have helped you and that you have learned something. Have a great week!
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KENYA UPDATE: I posted an entry explaining that we raised our money for the matching grant, which you can read here. We need more, however, and I tell you how you can give in the same entry.
ZIMBABWE, HERE I COME: I will be back in Zimbawe for the first time since December, 2007 starting November 27. If you would like to be part of my visit, you can read about my schedule here. I look forward to seeing all my friends there when I return.
Very enlightening and encouraging series - clear and to the point. I see myself as a type of Joseph - been waiting for manifestation of my vision in publishing, speaking and consulting for 17 years now, and still waiting. I thank GOD for using you as a channel of encouragement and clarity eversince I attended your first ever workshop on Purpose in Harare with Hossana Integrity. Your teaching has changed my life and that of many others too. GOD BLESS.
Posted by: Danisile Prinsloo Chivaura (Harare Zimbabwe) | November 14, 2011 at 02:19 AM
You are getting better has the year go by. Keep growing and being committed.
Question when your life changes for the better in 5 minutes, will you still be committed and what will you be committed to.
Warmest Regards Marcia Levine UK
Posted by: Marcia Levine | November 14, 2011 at 07:24 AM