But he left his garment in her hand and fled and got out of the house.
Genesis 39:12b
Lord, as I think about the situation that Joseph found himself in, it is easy for me to find reasons why I could justify succumbing to the temptation to do what is necessary to get ahead. When presented with opportunities to impress folks and win favor, I can easily rationalize that bending the rules a little will not matter. After all, who would know? Especially in situations where I perceive that the little infraction can result in a greater good. I see it all the time in the political arena.
Yet, I see how it actually demonstrates a lack of faith in You and Your ability to honor the good that I do even when I don’t see or experience the immediate results. By not trusting You to bless and be with me when I have to suffer the consequences as Joseph does when he was thrown into prison actually reveals my selfishness and sinful skewing of the facts, and exposes how I am vulnerable to my sin nature. Have mercy on me!
I pray today for spiritual courage to be willing to leave behind like Joseph my cloaks of dignity and acceptance in order to please You by doing right always. Even as Joseph’s garment represented his status in Potiphar’s house, so my reputation represents my status in the world. Give me the deep, spiritual conviction to be willing to lose it all that I might be found in You, trusting and believing that You are faithful. Continue to transform me from the inside out that I might be willing to lose all for the sake of Christ and Your Kingdom.
Today, I let it all go. Show me what I am clinging so close to so that I compromise even in the slightest bit. I can count it all as dung for the excellency of knowing YOU. I want to be found in Jesus, trusting and believing in You and in Your sovereignty. I know that are able to cause the consequences of my righteous actions, actions that may be frowned upon by this world’s system, to work out for my good and Your glory in Jesus’ Name. I leave it all behind that You might be exalted in me. Amen.