Every single day, you and I face temptation to sin. How should we handle those situations effectively and successfully?

Well, Genesis 39 presents one of Scripture’s most powerful examples of how to do that. Joseph, far from home and flourishing in Potiphar’s household, faced repeated advances from his master’s wife. His response demonstrates a masterclass in resisting temptation.

Joseph had perfect theological and moral clarity. When confronted with temptation, he said, “How then can I do this great wickedness and sin against God?” (Gen 39:9). He didn’t minimize the temptation as a “mistake” or rationalize it as understandable given his circumstances. Joseph saw sin for what it truly is—wickedness against the holy God who sees all.

And when the advances grew stronger, Joseph’s resistance grew stronger. He wasn’t passive. When Potiphar’s wife grabbed his garment, he ran, leaving it behind. His response is exactly what God would command through Apostle Paul: “Flee sexual immorality,” in 1 Corinthians 6, and “Flee youthful lusts,” in 2 Timothy 2. Sometimes holiness requires immediate, decisive action—not dialogue, not hesitation, but flight.

Now, Joseph’s obedience cost him dearly. She lied and cried sexual assault, and Potiphar threw him in prison. Joseph lost his position and reputation. Yet God saw his faithfulness and remained with him.

Beloved, so, what about your life? Are you minimizing sin’s seriousness? Entertaining temptation rather than fleeing? Joseph reminds us that holiness means seeing sin as God sees it—as great wickedness—and responding with whatever action is necessary to preserve our integrity before Him. Sometimes maintaining purity means running, even when staying seems advantageous. Even when consequences seem severe, always remember that God honors such faithfulness. And that’s how you stand successfully against temptation.

Change begins in you!