‘But God . . . ’

[Joseph] left his garment in her hand, and fled and ran outside. – Genesis 39:12

What if Joseph had succumbed to the advances of Potiphar’s wife? (Genesis 39). Imagine how he could have justified his sin. "But God, You don’t want me to be unhappy, and you know how lonely it is here. Besides, I think I really love her."

What if Abram had disobeyed when God told him to leave Ur and head for parts unknown? (Genesis 12). What if he had said, "But God, I’m established here. I can’t afford to risk everything on an uncertain future. I’ve got to watch out for Sarai. I’m staying."

Praise God that Joseph and Abram did the right thing. Abram left Ur, he journeyed in obedience.

In life, we face both of these kinds of choices. Sometimes temptation rises up in front of us. When it does, we can either run and reap God’s rewards – or we can give in, reap the sad consequences, and then make sorry excuses. Sometimes we sense that God is leading us in a particular direction. We can choose either to follow Him and trust His omniscience – or we can offer flimsy excuses and live a life of disobedience.

The abundant life of godliness is far better than a life of excuses and despair. Let’s live so that we won’t give in to the desire to say, "But God . . . "

– Dave Branon

Let the road be rough and dreary

And its end far out of sight,

Foot it bravely, strong or weary –

Trust in God and do the right.

– Macleod

READ: Genesis 39

God does not demand success – just obedience.