Genesis 39:1-23 - “Overcoming Temptation”
- This chapter begins with Joseph in Egypt, where he is a slave in Potiphar’s house. Read 39:1-6 to discover the setting of this chapter. What is a reoccurring theme of these verses? Why is the Lord’s presence an important part of these verses?
- How is God with Joseph in his “secular” work? How important is his work in the scheme of God’s big plan? How important is your work in the scheme of God’s big plan? Why is it important to understand that “secular” work is important to God? How do you view your daily work responsibilities?
- Joseph was successful in his work. How did Potiphar acknowledge Joseph’s faithfulness in caring for his household? What does Potiphar’s response tell us about Joseph’s character?
- How might Joseph’s success lead to temptation? How does success tempt you? How might personal success impact the way you live in a broken world?
- Joseph was a hunk and Potiphar’s wife noticed him. Read through verses 7-21 and identify the various ways that she tempted Joseph sexually. How was her temptation of Joseph progressive?
- Joseph understood the sacredness of sexuality. He knew that marriage covenants are not to be broken through infidelity. How does Joseph respond to her advances? Why must God’s people understand the sacredness of sexuality as we face sexual temptations in this sexually saturated culture?
- Joseph understood that sin is not only against another person, but ultimately it is an action against God. Why is that reality central to overcoming any temptation? How does that truth encourage growth in our relationship with the Lord? In our relationship with others?
- How are you a redemptive agent in our culture? Why does Joseph highlight the need for Christians to be agents in the workplace? How does Joseph story help us face sexual temptation in relationships?
- Jesus faced temptations that we faced (Hebrews 4:14-16). How do these verses emphasize the work of Christ on our behalf? How does He help His people face the temptations of our lives?
- Joseph knew that God was with him and he lived accordingly. How does his example speak to your heart and your actions this past week? Are there areas where you must seek forgiveness from God? If so, confess the sins and draw near to the Lord and trust Him for the grace and mercy to keep going.
Ask the Lord to use this meditation of His Word to increase our love for Him and for each other as we seek to live daily by the grace of God.
It is interesting to consider that my work matters to God. Puts a new spin on mornings.
But . . .
I think it is a stretch to say that the church looks at secular work with the same enthusiasm as religious work. I think most of us could quickly make a rough hierarchy of work in the church, from missions to begging. Directly and indirectly, churches communicate that paid Christian work skyrockets in value over lowly secular work, or worse, volunteer labor.
I find it hard to reconcile these two thoughts.
you’re right about how the church as a whole does not value highly enough secular calling . I think it’s because they don’t understand that our work is our calling , not our job. Most christians give a poor witness at their work instaed of being oone of the best and most productive employees.