Peril and Profit

Focus verses: Genesis 39:11-23

Joseph was faithful to the Lord in captivity. When Potiphar’s wife propositioned him, he refused to do such a wicked thing and sin against God. Although such an act would be a betrayal of Potiphar’s trust, it seems God is foremost on his mind.

Potiphar’s wife could have made life very comfortable for Joseph — had he not had scruples.

But he didn’t just refuse. He fled. He ran away from the temptress.

How many of us fail to flee from temptation? We live in a world full of invitations to do wrong. We watch them in the guise of entertainment. We consort with them at work. We live with them in our homes and families.

Joseph profited because he fled and didn’t give in to temptation. He kept faith with God, and God kept faith with him.

When we keep faith with God, we reap the fruits of that faithfulness. Just as Joseph found favor, even in prison, we find that God opens doors of opportunity for us.

They may not, however, look like opportunities to the rest of the world.No matter. When God favors you, your spirit prospers.

Father, God,

Give us the discernment to flee from temptation and help us keep our feet on a righteous path.

In Jesus most precious name.
Amen.