Don McClainW 65th St church of Christ / July 29,2007 1

 Facing Hatred & Envy  Facing Betrayal  Facing Persistent Temptation  Facing False Accusations  Facing Ingratitude  Facing Power & Responsibility  Facing Painful Memories  Facing Past Forgiven Sins Don McClainW 65th St church of Christ / July 29,2007 2

Joseph’s Problem  Potiphar’s wife “cast longing eyes on Joseph, and she said ‘Lie with me’” (Gen 39:7)  She persisted in tempting Joseph every day – (Gen 39:10)  She increased the aggressive nature of her temptation – (Gen 39:11,12) Don McClainW 65th St church of Christ / July 29,2007 3

Joseph’s Response 8 But he refused How then can I do this great wickedness, and sin against God?” (39:8-9) he did not heed her, to lie with her or to be with her. (39:10) he left his garment in her hand, and fled and ran outside. (39:11,12) Don McClainW 65th St church of Christ / July 29,2007 4

Application  All of us will face temptation (1 Cor 10:13)  We can and should say “no” – (Gen 4:7; Pro 1:10)  Refuse to listen, and avoid temptation – (Pro 5:8)  RUN!! – (1Co 6:18; 10:14; 1Ti 6:11; 2Ti 2:22) Don McClainW 65th St church of Christ / July 29,2007 5

Don McClainW 65th St church of Christ / July 29, Joseph’s Problem  Falsely accused by Potiphar’s wife –  She told the men of her house – (14-16)  Then she told Potiphar – (17-19)  Potiphar puts Joseph in prison – (20)

Don McClainW 65th St church of Christ / July 29, Joseph’s Reaction  No longer tempted by Potiphar’s wife –  Could have allowed discouragement, hatred and bitterness to destroy him...  BUT – The Lord blessed Joseph – Implying that Joseph kept a faithful spirit – 21-23

Don McClainW 65th St church of Christ / July 29, Application  We must keep our lives above reproach – but that will not guarantee our enemies will not falsely accuse us – (1 Pet 3:16; Luke 6:22)  Enemies will constantly watch us to discredit and accuse us – (Lk 6:7; 11:53,54).

Don McClainW 65th St church of Christ / July 29, Application  Too many brethren are too quick to believe false accusers without having any evidence.  When falsely accused – Let us be like Joseph and Jesus –  Retain our trust in God –  Remain faithful to God –  Be meek and humble -

Don McClainW 65th St church of Christ / July 29, Joseph’s Problem  Joseph in charge of chief butler & chief baker – (40:1-4)  Each had a dream & Joseph interpreted them – (40:5-19)  The butler was restored to his position – but forgot about Joseph for two full years – (40:14,23; 41:1,9-13)

Don McClainW 65th St church of Christ / July 29, Joseph’s Reaction  Joseph could have become bitter, despondent and sullen.  The two years did not make Joseph hostile, ungracious, or ungrateful for his release...  “... "It is not in me; God will give Pharaoh an answer of peace.“ (41:14,15)

Don McClainW 65th St church of Christ / July 29, Application  Do not be like the butler – We should remember the good that others do for us – and keep our word – Phili 1:3,4  We need to Keep a good attitude – even if others fail to demonstrate appreciation for our efforts – (1 Cor 15:58)

Don McClainW 65th St church of Christ / July 29,

 Facing Hatred & Envy  Facing Betrayal  Facing Persistent Temptation  Facing False Accusations  Facing Ingratitude  Facing Power & Responsibility  Facing Painful Memories  Facing Past Forgiven Sins Don McClainW 65th St church of Christ / July 29,