When The Door Slams
As soon as his master heard the words that his wife spoke to him, "This is the way your servant treated me," his anger was kindled. And Joseph's master took him and put him into the prison, the place where the king's prisoners were confined, and he was there in prison. But the LORD was with Joseph and showed him steadfast love and gave him favor in the sight of the keeper of the prison. Genesis 39:19-21 ESV
Let's unpack this: Potiphar's wife accused Joseph of trying to seduce her, when it was actually the other way around. "She caught him by his cloak and said, 'Come to bed with me!' But he left his cloak in her hand and ran" (Genesis 39:12 NIV). When I unpack it referred to that Potiphar "burned with anger," it is always been assumed that he was angry at Joseph. I looked again. It just says Potiphar was furious (Genesis 39:19 TLB). If he was furious at Joseph-a slave from parts unknown-his option was clear: Kill him.
But he didn't kill him. I think he knows full well that his wife is lying (certainly not for the first time!) and that he will have to take over the responsibilities that Joseph was handing. But he can not side with the slave against his wife. So he treats Joseph about as well as he can, sending him to a prison for the privileged, through that is still no picnic.
Joseph is forgotten for two years, then begins to rise from the ashes to vice president of Egypt. And all because God saw Joseph doing one thing, the one thing that He longs for from all His people. He saw Joseph refusing to sin. We all should take a stand. Refuse to sin. It is where everything else begins.
Think about this: The steps of a man are established by the LORD, when he delights in his way; though he fall, he shall not be cast headlong, for the LORD upholds his hand. In the fear of the LORD one has strong confidence, and his children will have a refuge. "Who are you that you are afraid of man who dies, of the son of man who is made like grass, and have forgotten the LORD, Your Maker?"
"I am with you to deliver you." Be strong and courageous. Do not fear or be in dread of them, for it is the LORD your God who goes with you. He will not leave you or forsake you."
Affirmation: The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance (2 Peter 3:9 NIV).
Ask the Holy Spirit to search your heart and reveal any areas of unconfessed sin. Acknowledge these to the LORD and thank Him for His for His Forgiveness.
Never Rest Ministries
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