“And it came to pass after these things, that his master’s wife cast her eyes upon Joseph; and she said, Lie with me.”
Genesis 39:7 is a pivotal verse in the story of Joseph, which is found in the Book of Genesis. This verse highlights a significant event that tests the integrity and faithfulness of Joseph, a young Hebrew man who had been sold into slavery in Egypt. To understand the context and significance of this verse, it is essential to examine the preceding events.
Joseph, the favorite son of Jacob, had been sold into slavery by his own brothers due to their jealousy and his dreams that suggested his future prominence. Joseph was taken to Egypt and purchased by Potiphar, an officer of Pharaoh and captain of the guard. The Lord blessed Joseph, and he found favor in Potiphar’s sight. Consequently, Potiphar made Joseph overseer of his household, entrusting him with various responsibilities.
In Genesis 39:7, we witness a turning point in Joseph’s life. Potiphar’s wife became attracted to Joseph’s physical appearance and likely desired to engage in an adulterous relationship with him. She approached him and boldly proposed that he lie with her. However, Joseph, being a man of integrity and righteousness, responded differently.
Genesis 39:8-9 (KJV) continues the account: “But he refused, and said unto his master’s wife, Behold, my master wotteth not what is with me in the house, and he hath committed all that he hath to my hand; There is none greater in this house than I; neither hath he kept back any thing from me but thee, because thou art his wife: how then can I do this great wickedness, and sin against God?”
Joseph’s response reveals his unwavering commitment to righteousness and loyalty. He understood that engaging in an adulterous act would not only betray his master’s trust but, more importantly, it would be a sin against God. Joseph recognized that moral purity and honoring God’s commandments took precedence over satisfying his own desires or succumbing to the temptation presented before him.
The narrative in Genesis goes on to describe how Potiphar’s wife persistently pursued Joseph, making false accusations against him when he continued to resist her advances. This eventually led to Joseph being unjustly thrown into prison, where he faced further trials and tests of his character.
Genesis 39:7 serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of personal integrity and remaining steadfast in the face of temptation. Joseph’s unwavering commitment to righteousness and his refusal to compromise his beliefs provide an inspiring example for believers today. It teaches us that true faithfulness to God requires making difficult choices and standing firm in the face of moral challenges, even when it comes at great personal cost.
In summary, Genesis 39:7 recounts the moment when Potiphar’s wife attempted to seduce Joseph, highlighting his steadfastness in refusing to engage in an immoral act. This verse underscores the significance of maintaining personal integrity and remaining faithful to God’s commandments, even in the midst of intense temptation.
