Sometimes you just need to "flee"...

Most of the time it is wise to face our trials head on. But sometimes I believe it is better to "flee." I was reminded of this principle recently when I read the story of Joseph and Potiphar's wife.

6 And he left all that he had in Joseph’s hand; and he knew not ought he had, save the bread which he did eat. And Joseph was a goodly person, and well favoured.

7 And it came to pass after these things, that his master’s wife cast her eyes upon Joseph; and she said, Lie with me.

8 But he refused, and said unto his master’s wife, Behold, my master wotteth not what is with me in the house, and he hath committed all that he hath to my hand;

9 There is none greater in this house than I; neither hath he kept back any thing from me but thee, because thou art his wife: how then can I do this great wickedness, and sin against God?

10 And it came to pass, as she spake to Joseph day by day, that he hearkened not unto her, to lie by her, or to be with her.

11 And it came to pass about this time, that Joseph went into the house to do his business; and there was none of the men of the house there within.

12 And she caught him by his garment, saying, Lie with me: and he left his garment in her hand, and fled, and got him out. -Genesis 39:6-12

What are the "potiphar wives" that stand in our way? What temptations should we "flee" from? I can think of a few:

1. Pornography (print and internet)
2. Inappropriate thoughts of lust
3. Entertainment that provokes sexual thoughts and desires
4. Situations in which our sexual morality may be compromised

These are a few temptations I can think of, and I am sure there are more. When we are faced with these "potiphar wives" lets remember the story of Joseph, drop everything and anything we are doing, and "flee" to moral safety.

If you are on the computer and have a desire to view pornography, turn off the computer and flee. If you are experiencing inappropriate thoughts flee from them by concentrating on prayer or the scriptures. If you are viewing entertainment that causes you to have inappropriate sexual thoughts and desires flee from the entertainment. And if you are in a situation where your morals could be compromised flee from the situation.