February 20, 2012

Contemplating Joseph

Joseph found himself in a very difficult environment. Not many on my Facebook friends list can even begin to imagine what slavery in Egypt was like c.1750 B.C. Nevertheless, he rose above the circumstances because God was with him (Genesis 39:2). His master noticed Joseph's success and entrusted him with all that he had (Genesis 39:3). Today, many of us have been entrusted with opportunities to serve. Some have employers that have entrusted them with resources and responsibilities to make their business profitable. Some have families that depend on them to meet the needs of every-day challenges. Yet, people often struggle to find satisfaction in their lives. Some become tired of the every-day routines. They attack the day by mustering up whatever motivation they can by placing their focus on what is really important to them. Others find themselves geared up and ready to take on whatever the world may throw at them. They seem to have boundless energy. Positivity exudes from their pores. People will experience both of these extremes when they evaluate their success on external circumstances or results. This approach to life fails to take into account all of the variables people have no control over. It also has the potential to place us in a very dangerous course of self-destruction. So what is the right approach?
 Potiphar's wife enjoyed the benefits of her husband's wealth but she chose to be unfaithful to him. She thought she was the center of her universe. As far as she was concerned, she had the right to enjoy whatever she wanted regardless of how it would affect her, her husband, or anyone else around her. Joseph found himself in an awkward situation. It was awkward because he recognized that his authority was delegated authority. He knew that his position in Potiphar's home was granted for the purpose of Potiphar's well being.
I believe he also knew this woman had the potential of ruining him. Joseph decided to be faithful and flee from immorality. Joseph's rejection of his master's wife's advances mentioned in Genesis 39:8-9 was not the last moment of temptation. Joseph's response was given at the beginning of his ordeal. It would have been easy for Joseph to desire Potiphar's wife. He was a slave. He had no guarantee of ever being married. It is natural for someone to take advantage of their privileges and forget they have responsibilities to others. But Joseph did not reach out and taste the forbidden fruit that was placed in the midst of his Eden. Instead, he honored God by determining to be faithful and committing himself to doing what is right.



Joseph understood some things about God. First, he knew God had a plan for him (Genesis 37:10). He may not have known the specific details of the plan, but he knew the God who gave him dreams did so for a purpose. Second, he had experienced God's favor and mercy. Even though Joseph found himself in difficult circumstances, he recognized that God had not left him to despair. His success  and his promotion were a result of God's steadfast love. Finally, Joseph knew God was in control of every circumstance in his life. Recognizing God's sovereignty in the midst of difficult circumstances strengthens us and helps us to find peace as we tune our moral compass to the influence of God's character. Joseph's decision to remain faithful to Potiphar was a reflection of Joseph's desire to be faithful to the God who gave him the opportunity to serve in the position he had been given. Approaching life, with its potential volatility and uncertainty, with the recognition that a sovereign God has allowed you to endure these circumstances so you can experience his love gives strength, purpose, and hope. 

Living this way does not happen by accident. It requires a conscious effort to trust God. The God who has revealed himself in Scripture desires that you know him and the power of his gospel. The gospel is the greatest demonstration of God's steadfast love for all men everywhere. 


I pray that you will find peace and fulfillment by believing the gospel of Jesus Christ.






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