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Joseph, a Man of Principle, March 13
Living by Principle Not Inclination
How can I do this great wickedness, and sin against God?
Genesis 39:9
Joseph’s gentleness and fidelity won the heart of the chief captain,
who came to regard him as a son rather than a slave.... But Joseph’s faith
and integrity were to be tested by fiery trials. His master’s wife endeav-
ored to entice the young man to transgress the law of God. Heretofore he
had remained untainted by the corruption teeming in that heathen land;
but this temptation, so sudden, so strong, so seductive—how should
it be met? Joseph knew well what would be the consequence of re-
sistance. On the one hand were concealment, favor, and rewards; on
the other, disgrace, imprisonment, perhaps death. His whole future life
depended upon the decision of the moment. Would principle triumph?
Would Joseph still be true to God? With inexpressible anxiety, the angels
looked upon the scene.
Joseph’s answer reveals the power of religious principle. He would
not betray the confidence of his master on earth, and, whatever the
consequences, he would be true to his Master in heaven....
Joseph suffered for his integrity; for his tempter revenged herself
by accusing him of a foul crime, and causing him to be thrust into
prison. Had Potiphar believed his wife’s charge against Joseph, the
young Hebrew would have lost his life; but the modesty and uprightness
that had uniformly characterized his conduct were proof of his innocence;
and yet, to save the reputation of his master’s house, he was abandoned
to disgrace and bondage....
But Joseph’s real character shines out, even in the darkness of the
dungeon. He held fast his faith and patience; his years of faithful service
had been most cruelly repaid, yet this did not render him morose or
distrustful. He had the peace that comes from conscious innocence, and
he trusted his case with God.
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