Enduring Temptation

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Introduction: So often in the Bible and in daily life, we see the results of those who do not endure the temptation to sin. Over and over again, we are warned of the dangers of temptation. However, this story shows us one who was tempted and yet did not sin (1Cor.10:13). Joseph is an example to us all in his resistance to temptation.

I.     BLESSINGS IN BONDAGE (39:1-6) 

      A.     Sold to an Officer of Pharaoh (v.1) 

1.     Brought down to Egypt – a type of the world (In the world, we will have to deal with temptation.)

2.     Sold as a slave – Joseph had every excuse to give in to temptation. He was a slave and had no power of his own. No one would listen to him and no one would come to his aid. This makes his resistance to temptation an even greater example for us. 

      B.     Prospered in his Master’s House (v.2-3) 

      C.     Made Overseer Over the House (v.4-6) 

II.     TEMPTATION IN EGYPT (39:7-12) 

      A.     Presentation (v.7-9) 

            1.     The call to sin (v.7; Proverbs 7:13)

a.     The eyes – we are often tempted by what we see. We should, as much as possible, guard what we see (Psalm 101:3; Isaiah 33:15; Job 31:1)

b.     The ears – Temptation also comes through what we hear and that also should be guarded.

            2.     His refusal to sin (v.8-9)

                  a.     His debt to his master (v.8-9)

                  b.     His debt to his God (v.9; 2Corinthians 5:14-15) 

B.     Continuation (v.10) –he did not have to bear temptation just once but was tempted “day by day” 

      C.     Situation (v.11-12)           

1.     His guard was down (v.11) –Joseph did not sin in this situation but he did not show the greatest of wisdom in allowing himself to be in the house alone with Potiphar’s wife. Not only do we need to do right, but we need to keep ourselves from situations where we can be trapped or tempted when we are weak.

2.     She trapped him (v.12)

3.     He fled from temptation (v.12; 1Corinthians 6:18; 2Timothy 2:22) –as much as possible, we need to avoid the occasions of temptation. However, there are times when this is not possible or when we are caught in a bad situation unawares. In the cases, we need to flee as the scripture says. 

Points to Ponder