Overcoming Temptation
We live in a world of sexual temptation that pervades our world and enters our lives through the internet, TV, movies, music, school, and society in general. God can help you overcome the challenges of sexual temptation.
It reads like a soap opera, with four primary characters: Joseph—a hunk of a slave; Mrs. Potiphar—a lonely wife; Mr. Potiphar—a busy husband who traveled a lot; and God. You have to read Genesis 39:6-12 to get the details and see how God helped Joseph deal with his temptation. First, overcome sexual temptation by obeying God—“How then can I do this great wickedness, and sin against God?” (Genesis 39:9b) Joseph recognized that sexual purity is a spiritual issue, and that sexual misconduct is a sin against God. Don’t miss this! Sex outside of a marriage relationship is an activity outside of God’s purpose. You may seem to be the only one obedient to God: then be the only one! Second, overcome sexual temptation by respecting marriage—“nor has he kept back anything from me but you, because you are his wife.” (Genesis 39:9a) Joseph showed respect to Potiphar. When you are faced with sexual temptation, consider your husband or wife and the other person’s husband or wife. Show respect to them, to your wedding vows, and to their wedding vows. Sexual purity is also important before marriage. You are dating someone’s future husband or wife, and someone is dating your future husband or wife. Third, overcome sexual temptation by standing firm. Joseph resisted Mrs. Potiphar’s advances. She said, “Lie with me.” (v. 7); he refused. She continued her pursuit: “she spoke to Joseph day by day … to lie with her or to be with her.” (v. 10) He kept refusing her and finally he ran away from her. (v. 12) What’s the point here? Culture today bombards us with sexual temptation. The answer is to flee! Turn and run! Vow to live sexually pure.
Sin cera, Erik
Erik O. Garthe is Associate Pastor at Canton Baptist Church in Baltimore, Maryland.