Joseph shows Character

January 1, 2012


Background Scripture: Genesis 37, 39
Lesson Passage: Genesis 39:7 – 21a

One’s character says who he really is. Some have said that character can be defined as who you are when no one else is watching. Others have said that character is what you do on your fourth and fifth attempts. Of course an English dictionary will define character as one of the attributes or features that make up and distinguish an individual. So character can imply both good and bad attributes. If one assumes that the word means good and not bad—as it is used in the title of this lesson—then the word implies moral excellence and firmness in a person. Perhaps as we consider today’s lesson, we should consider all of these angles as it relates to discussing Joseph’s character. In the situation involving Joseph in our lesson, there is the need for moral excellence and firmness but especially when no one else is around to grade us on it. Joseph’s situation was such that he had nothing to gain and everything to lose. Yet, he withstood the test. I believe that true character can only emanate from within without any pressure or persuasion from without. Although we strive to live up to the standards that God has prescribed for us, this only becomes a part of our character when we are the only one to judge and hold ourselves accountable for our own behavior and thinking. Or put another way, we have to grade our own paper as it relates to character.

Joseph’s character was truly put to the test. This did not just happen on one occasion but day by day did Potiphar’s wife persist. Not only did Joseph stand up for what he believed to be right, there is no record that he sought to expose the corrupt nature of Potiphar’s wife’s character. He stood firm on his moral belief without exposing the immorality of others. No doubt Joseph understood that he was in a difficult situation and it eventually led to his imprisonment. Joseph was in prison for at least two years. It seems as though he had loss everything again. Nevertheless, this did not sway him from his conviction. One of the lessons that we can learn from Joseph’s situation is that in spite of all the good that we may never be recognized or rewarded for in this life, it only takes one bad thing, real or alleged, to cause severe punishment. A better lesson to learn is that God was with Joseph in all situations. Although it may seem as though we stand alone at times, children of God are never alone. That’s God’s promise to us. We should strive to have the character of Christ—including not resorting to private pity parties when we are punished or otherwise persecuted for it. When we are put to the test, can we handle it and will our character pass with flying colors? In spite of a difficult situation, Joseph showed character and God was with him.


Robert C. Hudson
December 21, 2011