Joseph is an excellent model for our great war against temptation. We may not be faced with the exact same temptation as Joseph was, but undoubtedly we will face temptation each and every day. When he was confronted with how to relate to his master Potiphar and Potiphar’s wife, Joseph leaned on his understanding of the Lord and the knowledge that he stood before the face of the Lord: “He is not greater in this house than I am, nor has he kept back anything from me except you, because you are his wife. How then can I do this great wickedness and sin against God?” (Genesis 39:9) All of our lives should be guided by the thought of standing before an omniscient God who cares for us, and has given us a guide to life in His Law.

I. The Lord’s Presence in Blessings
A. Comforted in Blessings
B. Faithful in Blessings

II. Lord’s Presence in Temptations
A. Recognizing Temptation
B. Fleeing Temptation

III. Lord’s Presence in Trials
A. Not Abandoned
B. Trusting God

Questions for consideration: (1) Do you ever feel abandoned by God? What helps you to overcome that feeling? (2) Why is it so important to recognize when temptation comes? (3) Why do you think the Lord brings trials, even when we are trusting Him?