“And Beside This”
17
to leave the narrow road that leads to eternal life; but you must stand
like a faithful soldier of the Lord Jesus Christ. Joseph is an example
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of how the youth may stand unspotted, amid the evil of the world, and
add to their faith, virtue. Though a captive in a strange land, far from
the restraints of home, he kept the fear of God before him, and when
he was sorely tempted to indulge in evil, he exclaimed, “How then can
I do this great wickedness, and sin against God?” The grace of God
enabled him to resist the tempter. He was cast into prison, because of
his steadfastness of purpose to keep the commandments of God. But
prison walls could not shut out the light of Heaven’s favor, nor hinder
his advancement in the divine life; for “the Lord was with Joseph, and
shewed him mercy.” And the Lord will be with every soul who adds
the precious grace of virtue, and who fears to transgress the law of
Heaven.
Belief and patience
Joseph did not complain at his lot, nor question why the Lord
permitted him to suffer for righteousness’ sake. He did not allow any
cloud of despondency to settle upon his heart. He believed in God, and
patiently waited for his salvation. He determined that this affliction
should serve as an occasion to glorify God and benefit his associates.
He did not cease his efforts toward perfection of character. He forgot
his sorrow in seeking to lighten the sorrows of others, and the prisoners
saw that the Lord was with Joseph. When he had borne the proving of
the furnace, the Lord brought him out of the gloomy cell, and exalted
him to a position next to the king of Egypt. Those who honor God will
be honored by Him.
Had Joseph wavered and fallen under the first temptation, his
strength would have been insufficient for the second test. It is im-
portant that we do not take a wrong step in any direction; for it is very
unprofitable to us. Whatever it may cost you, add to your faith, virtue.
The greatest earthly loss will prove eternal gain if this is accomplished.
If we use our powers unwisely, for the gratification of sinful desires,
we cannot attain to the exaltation of character to which God would
have us attain. We rob God of the service we should render, and fail
to accomplish the good that we owe to our fellow men. If we give
ourselves to Christ, He will become our helper. Poor and sinful and