Divine Favor vs. Human Effort: Are These Biblical Messages Contradictory?
In this article, you will learn how Genesis 39:23 contradicts Proverbs 16:9, Ecclesiastes 9:11, Jeremiah 17:5, Matthew 5:45 and Romans 9:16. Find the translations at the bottom of the page..
The tale of Joseph in Genesis 39:23 depicts a compelling story of divine presence and favor. Despite being imprisoned, Joseph succeeds in all his endeavors because "God was with him." His success is attributed to divine intervention, creating a narrative where human effort, guided and blessed by God, leads to prosperity and trust from others. However, this story contrasts with other biblical perspectives.
Proverbs 16:9 suggests a nuanced view. It proposes that while humans may devise plans, it is God who ultimately directs their paths. This implies an intricate interplay between human intention and divine guidance. The focus leans towards humanity's initiative being steered by God, unlike Joseph's narrative where divine providence appears to grant success.
Ecclesiastes 9:11 introduces the element of unpredictability, stating that "time and chance" influence all outcomes. This perspective challenges the notion in Genesis that Joseph's success was purely due to divine will, suggesting that circumstances play a significant role in one's achievements.
Furthermore, Jeremiah 17:5 cautions against relying on human ability, warning of misplaced trust. This advice seems at odds with Joseph's story, where human trust brought about by his godly success is central. It raises questions about where one should truly place trust—solely in God or balanced between divine guidance and human capability.
Matthew 5:45 broadens this discourse by illustrating God's impartial provision, symbolized through sunlight and rain for both the just and unjust. This universal goodness seems to contradict the exclusive favor shown to Joseph.
Lastly, Romans 9:16 reinforces the supremacy of God's mercy over human effort or desire, providing a stark contrast to Joseph's prosperous actions being credited to divine presence.
These diverse viewpoints echo a broader theological discussion: how do divine will and human effort coexist? Or more poignantly, how much do we order our steps, and how much is done for us?
| # | Verse | Translation |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Genesis 39:23 | The keeper of the prison looked not to any thing [that was] under his hand; because the LORD was with him, and [that] which he did, the LORD made [it] to prosper. |
| 2. | Proverbs 16:9 | A man's heart deviseth his way: but the LORD directeth his steps. |
| 3. | Ecclesiastes 9:11 | I returned, and saw under the sun, that the race [is] not to the swift, nor the battle to the strong, neither yet bread to the wise, nor yet riches to men of understanding, nor yet favour to men of skill; but time and chance happeneth to them all. |
| 4. | Jeremiah 17:5 | Thus saith the LORD; Cursed [be] the man that trusteth in man, and maketh flesh his arm, and whose heart departeth from the LORD. |
| 5. | Matthew 5:45 | That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust. |
| 6. | Romans 9:16 | So then [it is] not of him that willeth, nor of him that runneth, but of God that sheweth mercy. |