Today, the Scripture is taken from: Genesis 39:7-20

Theme Verse

 ...How then can I do this great wickedness and sin against God?" Genesis 39: 9 (ESV)

An American college professor stood in front on his class, regaling students with tales from his glory days. He had worked for Congress and the State Department, and he often shared stories with the class. This time, a student asked about the many sex scandals among U.S. politicians: "What's that all about?"

The professor said, "Many people who are in positions of power have the mentality that they are entitled to something private as a stress relief. They think that they are working so hard and making so many sacrifices that they deserve to do what they want some of the time."

Does that attitude sound familiar? Have you known people in your workplace who take this approach?

Joseph's mindset is a refreshing contrast to this sense of entitlement. His reasoning for not sleeping with Potiphar's wife was not, "What if we get caught?" It was "How then could I do such a wicked thing and sin against God?" (Genesis 39:9).

Sexual harassment policies and workplace personnel trainings can be helpful. But ultimately, that shouldn't be the basis for our sexual integrity.

In Proverbs, as King Solomon warned against adultery, he wrote:

For your ways are in full view of the LORD, and he examines all your paths. The evil deeds of the wicked ensnare them; the cords of their sins hold them fast. For lack of discipline they will die, led astray by their own great folly. Proverbs 5:21-23

It's this attitude of reverent fear of the Lord that is the foundation for integrity. It's knowing that nothing is hidden from him-not our internet browsing, not the things we do on business trips out of town. Our ways are in full view of the Lord.

Joseph understood this. That understanding became the foundation for his obedience.

Joseph also took practical steps. It's not clear the extent to which he felt tempted when Potiphar's wife propositioned him, but he certainly fled temptation.

In another mainstream media sex scandal, the alleged behavior is a case study in what not to do: invite someone to a private meeting on a boat, ask them to bring wine, and say that they can't bring their spouse. In what universe does that seem innocent? And, even if the person's intentions were good (a big if), it's foolish to assume anyone will make wise decisions in that scenario.

We can all learn from Joseph's example. If your goal is not to fall off a cliff, don't go dancing around the precipice. J. Budziszewski, author and professor of government and philosophy at the University of Texas, Austin, wrote:

Your rational control is:

1.  Strong in  deciding what circumstances to put yourself in;

2. Weak in  deciding what emotions to have when you're already in      those circumstances; and

3. Weakest in deciding what to do when you're already under the influence of those emotions.

For this reason, I emphasize decision 1. ²

Be real with yourself about your weak points. And seek out other believers who will be real with you. If having an e-reader makes it too easy to download books you shouldn't, get rid of it, even if it's convenient for traveling. Don't have a long talk with your ex-spouse about troubles in their new marriage. The apostle Paul says that God will provide a way out when we are tempted (1 Corinthians 10:13). Just don't ignore the way out that he provides.

With all this talk about practical steps, there is something important we should note. We are talking about living a fully integrated life, particularly the expression of that in the workplace. However, especially in Christian settings, an emphasis on avoiding temptation can end up marginalizing women and making it harder for them to achieve leadership roles.

Organizations should make efforts to create environments where women have equal access to senior leaders. That includes things like having glass panels in the office doors or making travel arrangements that involve multiple people. Make sure that any practical steps you take are not discriminatory. Treat everyone with respect.

We are in the world but not of the world (John 17: 14) and are to be set apart for God. We are called to be salt and light for God (Matthew 5: 13 till 16) and be a good influence at the workplace. However, the temptations in this world are real. We are constantly bombarded with images from the media and the glamorous world. Thus, we need to have strong resolve to overcome temptations. In conclusion, what can you do to flee temptations and practice integrity at the workplace?

Let’s pray.

Lord, lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil. Please direct our eyes and ears to the right things. Bless us with the wisdom and strength to flee temptations and live a life of integrity before You. In Jesus' name we pray, Amen.

Time for Reflections

1.  How much do you think of your ways as being in full view of the Lord?

2. How do you draw the boundaries in your relationships with others at your workplace?

3. What practical steps might you need to take to pursue sexual and whole-life integrity?