08.04.07 The 1st Key for Evaluating a Prospective Partner's Readiness for Progress and Development

1. Does the Person Demonstrate a Clear Purpose, Direction and Vision?

Observe the prospective partner’s clarity of purpose, direction and vision. Does the person prioritise goals, make intentional decisions and navigate challenges with a clear sense of purpose; or are decisions driven by excitement, temporary desires or spontaneous advice rather than thoughtful planning?

Asenath must have been impressed by Joseph’s ability to establish a clear purpose, direction and vision, and use them to guide his decision-making. She would have heard of how God gave him dreams at a very young age that pointed to his future (Genesis 37:5–11), and how he consistently took responsibility in every environment, both in Potiphar’s house and in prison (Genesis 39–40). The same ability was evident when Pharaoh recognised his wisdom and placed him in charge of Egypt’s affairs (Genesis 41:39–40).

Joseph must have observed Asenath’s willingness to align herself with a purposeful and directed life. Writers assert how she gave up idol worship and chose to follow the God of her husband. She must have realised that she could not combine idol worship with the worship of the true God, then determined to make a turnaround. That could not have been a light decision given that she was a daughter of the Priest of On.

In addition, Joseph must have noticed Asenath’s ability to align with his direction through the stability she maintained within their household during a demanding season (Genesis 41:50–52). She managed her responsibilities as a wife and mother, supported him in his role and raised their sons with intentional purpose.

Brenda was different. She does not seem to have had sound purpose, direction and vision, given that her choices were driven by excitement, urgency and baseless advice rather than a strategy. For instance, she impulsively bought a plot based on a TikToker's claim and started building without proper planning. Her lack of clear strategy and reliance on unverified information led to a chaotic and ultimately disastrous project.

A progressive and development-oriented partner has a clear sense of purpose, direction and vision. The person recognises that those three aspects will provide structure for decision-making and prioritisation. Shared direction helps both of you to understand where you are going and why, so that you can support each other’s growth and build a stable and resilient relationship.