Google the phrase, “the hand of God” and the first responses all concern Diego Maradonna’s famous goal against England in the 1986 World Cup soccer championship. The legendary Argentinian striker pushed in the first goal with his hand (which is very illegal) against England.

The referee missed it and allowed the goal.

After the game Maradonna joked that it was the “hand of God.” England’s manager remarked grimly that for him it was, “the hand of a rascal.”

Somehow, I doubt that God is too interested in soccer results, or (difficult to believe) even American football results. But, I know one thing: if I’m doing something, I want the hand of God involved on my side.

Jacob’s son Joseph rose to the lofty heights of second-in-command of all Egypt, one of the most powerful countries in the world at the time. Nice. Wouldn’t you like God to bless you like that?

But, with God’s hand of blessing comes a tremendous responsibility. Joseph learned that God blesses us for a reason.

“Yes, Lord! Gimme, gimme some blessings!” Joseph, did you know that the preparation for the blessing that God promised through you would lead through rejection, slavery, and prison?

I’m not sure that Joseph would have chosen the blessing if he knew what he had to go through to get it. He simply chose obedience—every day, no matter what.

When he was a son, he was the best son. When he was forced into slavery, he decided to become the best slave there was. And when he ended up as a jailbird, he was the best prisoner in the prison.

Then suddenly his chance came. He was ready because his attitude never soured, even when he was in a hole he didn’t deserve to be in.

He didn’t have to pray, fast, and do all sorts of spiritual things because he did what he should even when it was tough.

We’ve all got goals and dreams for this coming year (at least I hope we have). But, a lot of us find ourselves in places and situations where we don’t want to be.

Can I give you a bit of advice? Do the best you can at the job in front of you, even if you don’t want the job. Get your attitude right and be excellent in the task at hand.

Who knows what is going to happen if you always live like that?

“Servants, do what you’re told by your earthly masters. And don’t just do the minimum that will get you by. Do your best. Work from the heart for your real Master, for God, confident that you’ll get paid in full when you come into your inheritance. Keep in mind always that the ultimate Master you’re serving is Christ. The sullen servant who does shoddy work will be held responsible. Being a follower of Jesus doesn’t cover up bad work.” (Col. 3:22-25, The Message)

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Have A Think—

“Isn’t it odd that the US had so many statesmen during the late 1700s? …Revolutions make heroes at least as much as heroes make revolutions.” Seth Godin

Smiles—

Some people you know were dropped on their heads as babies. And some were clearly thrown in the air, hit the ceiling fan, bounced off the wall and fell out the window.