May 5, 2024 - Genesis 39:1-21
May 5, 2024
Genesis 39:1-21
Lessons Learned
by Wayne Gaeddert
1. Genesis 38 provides a sharp contrast that portrays Joseph in chapter 39 as a superior leader with strong moral character.
2. Verse three is emphatic that God was working to make Joseph a successful man in all that he did.
3. It is highly unusual for a foreign slave to gain any type of authority in Egypt.
4. God did not speak directly to Joseph as he had done with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.
5. Potiphar was blessed through Joseph because of a promise God made to Abraham, “I will bless those who bless you...” Gen 12:3
6. Joseph was 17 years old (Gen 37:2, 38:28, 39:1) when he became a slave in Egypt.
7. Joseph, Daniel, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego were all teenagers who made a huge impact for God in a foreign land.
8. Joseph was ‘handsome in form and appearance,’ just like his mother. Gen 29:17, 39:6
9. Joseph explained his refusal to Potiphar’s wife that adultery is great wickedness and sin against God.
10. Joseph’s garment was again used as a tool to deceive, this time Potiphar.
11. Potiphar’s wife uses these points to blackmail Joseph:
My husband is at fault for Joseph’s presence in the home.
Racial tension (perhaps antisemitism) between Egyptians and foreigners.
Joseph’s action was intended to make fun of the entire household.
12. Proverbs 6:20-35 provides a strong warning against giving in to the sin of adultery.
13. Usually, a slave found guilty of adultery (especially a foreign slave) would be killed rather than put in prison, but Joseph is innocent and God is in control.
14. God’s blessings serve a greater purpose than an individual’s personal triumph. Dr. LeBron Matthews
How has God Blessed you?
How might God be trying to use your blessing to impact the lives of others?
15. Potiphar was a high-ranking official with close ties to Pharaoh.
16. The best defense against temptation is to flee. 1 Cor 6:18
17. “In duty he (Joseph) was loyal, in temptation he was strong, and in prison he was faithful.” D. Mennen
18. Joseph did not have anyone to lean on for encouragement as he suffered each trial of mistreatment, God stood by his side.
19. Believers have no control over some experiences in life. But can respond to unjust circumstances with faith and integrity. Dr. LeBron Matthews
20. Those who are faithful with the small things will be given greater responsibility. Luke 16:10
21. God’s blessing in your life does not insulate you from hardship or injustice.
22. Your ability to overcome temptation depends more on character than circumstances.
23. “We will live life without direction and purpose unless we believe God is in control of all things (Genesis 40:8).” Dr. Don Laughlin
24. Joseph was a blessing wherever he was except at home with his brothers.
25. Application:
Temptation will test your resolve to believe what God has said or reveal your doubt and unbelief.
Doing the right thing does not always provide the desired outcome in an earthly court, but you will be rewarded in the heavenly court.
When things are not working out according to plan, you must remember that
God is in control. Live your life so that others see your dependence upon God.