Lessons from the Life of Joseph
“…and he left his garment in her hand, and fled.” Genesis 39:12 (KJV)
Today there is a belief that young men and
women who “like”
each other should go off on their own and “date” to find out if they’ve found the right one. They place themselves in a place of zero accountability and at the very feet of temptation (see James 1:14-15 for more explanation). Millions of children have been aborted or born out-of-wedlock in result of such choices—sadly, even amongst “Christian” circles. . . . we see Joseph respond differently, though, to a very direct temptation to “go to bed” with the wife of his master. We see Joseph wisely avoid being around her as much as possible. If we are going to act in wisdom around members of the opposite sex as well, shouldn’t we be careful about being alone with a significant other?
each other should go off on their own and “date” to find out if they’ve found the right one. They place themselves in a place of zero accountability and at the very feet of temptation (see James 1:14-15 for more explanation). Millions of children have been aborted or born out-of-wedlock in result of such choices—sadly, even amongst “Christian” circles. . . . we see Joseph respond differently, though, to a very direct temptation to “go to bed” with the wife of his master. We see Joseph wisely avoid being around her as much as possible. If we are going to act in wisdom around members of the opposite sex as well, shouldn’t we be careful about being alone with a significant other?
The Word says in 1 Corinthians 10:13-14 that “God
is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are
able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be
able to bear it. Wherefore, my dearly beloved, flee… (KJV).” In light of
other passages, this promise only applies to those who don’t give the devil a
foothold; in other words, this promise is for the Believer who is following
after Christ, not for someone who merely wants God for a crutch so they won’t
get into trouble. But our God is merciful, He rescues so many from temptation
when they only call upon Him.
Like Joseph, we should flee temptation at the
first opportunity. Staying isn’t a sign of manhood or toughness, but stupidity,
or in nicer words, a lack of understanding. 1 Corinthians 10:13 says that “God
will provide a way out” but also “flee temptation!”
Question for Transformation
Where
do you need to flee temptation and set some boundaries so you won’t give Satan
a foothold?
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