Man vs. Temptation: A Men's DevotionalSample

When Joseph was Tempted

Many of us are familiar with the story of Joseph and his attempted seduction by Potiphar's wife (Genesis 39:1-23).

However, it's important to understand the context in which it takes place: that of an ancient Egyptian slave sold to an officer in the Pharaoh's guard.

A slave in this society had no rights or legal protections and was considered the property of a wealthy master, who could treat them however they wished. In ancient Egypt, there was no concept of a middle class; generally, people were either extraordinarily rich or slaves who depended entirely on their master's mercy and kindness.

The Bible tells us that Potiphar's wife attempted to seduce Joseph multiple times. As a slave, refusing the advances of his master's wife was quite risky; a single negative word from her to Potiphar could lead to imprisonment or even death for Joseph. On the other hand, if Joseph had agreed to the affair, his life might have gone much more easily due to her favor.

However, Joseph recognized that engaging in the affair would be a sin against God, which carries even greater significance than sinning against Potiphar.

In times of pressure, men can sometimes lose sight of who we are truly sinning against.

How did Joseph resist Potiphar’s wife?

Firstly, he made a concerted effort to avoid her as much as possible. He ignored her advances and resisted her seduction. Unfortunately, these attempts were not enough to deter her from trying.

In the end, Joseph had to physically run away from Potiphar’s wife. When faced with strong sexual temptation, it is essential for men to turn and flee from it.

Consider this: the Bible’s wisest man, Solomon, and strongest man, Samson, both failed God in the same way—they could not resist the sexual allure of beautiful women (1 Kings 11:1-4; Judges 16:1-21). Proverbs 5:8-9 (ESV) advises us to stay away from a forbidden woman: "Keep your way far from her, and do not go near the door of her house, lest you give your honor to others and your years to the merciless.”

Joseph avoided temptation but was imprisoned due to false accusations made against him. However, God was with Joseph and granted him favor in the eyes of the prison keeper.

Ultimately, Joseph rose to a position of power, becoming second only to Pharaoh. While fleeing from temptation may seem like an extreme response, it is what God expects from men, and He blessed Joseph for it.

Prayer: Father, grant us the wisdom and strength to resist temptation. We recognize that failing to do so would be a sin against You. Help us to flee when we need to. Amen.

Reflection: Is there anything you need to “flee” in your life? It could be something as simple as an inappropriate TV show or a friendship that has led to improper thoughts. Is it time to flee?