[Potiphar’s wife] kept his cloak beside her until his master came home. Then she told him this story: "That Hebrew slave you brought us came to me to make sport of me. But as soon as I screamed for help, he left his cloak beside me and ran out of the house." — Genesis 39:16-18
I’m glad this story is in the Bible, because we need it. Who among us hasn’t been falsely accused! My wife was once accused of stealing fifty dollars from the cash register where she worked. She didn’t take the money, but even now, over thirty years later, I’m not sure the owner believes her.
I know of two people who have been accused of sexual harassment and/or assault. In both cases, I have strong reason to believe that the charges are false. Nevertheless, the accusations are tearing their lives apart. They have lost money, ministry, trust, friends, and more. Even if they are exonerated, the damage cannot be undone.
There are powerful lessons here: The prudent see danger and take refuge. That woman (or man) who seems so inviting can be a death trap. The fly thinks the spider is harmless until he is caught in her web. Some people will happily destroy the life of another for fun or for financial gain.
Most importantly, the success of Potiphar’s wife was short lived. God weaved her treachery into His plan and brought His servant out as the ruler of the land. Our reputations are precious, yet fragile. But if they are broken, God will see to it that we are honored once again.
Be encouraged!
Dwight
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