Knowing that something is wrong and having the courage to walk away from it are two different things.
This week at Ree’s Life, we are discussing the first principle in our 10-week self-care series: “If it feels wrong, don’t do it.”
Joseph’s story in Genesis 39 gives us a powerful biblical example of this principle. Although Joseph faced pressure and serious consequences, he refused to take part in something he knew was wrong.
Joseph Faced a Difficult Situation
Joseph’s journey had already been difficult. His brothers sold him into slavery, and eventually he became a servant in the household of Potiphar, an Egyptian official.
Despite his circumstances, Joseph worked faithfully. Consequently, Potiphar trusted him and placed him in charge of his household.
Then Joseph met another challenge.
Potiphar’s wife repeatedly tried to persuade Joseph to sleep with her. However, Joseph refused.
His decision wasn’t based simply on whether the situation made him uncomfortable. Joseph recognized that the action violated his responsibilities, his values, and his relationship with God.
Joseph Established a Boundary
Genesis 39 shows us that Joseph didn’t negotiate with something he knew was wrong.
He said no.
Still, the pressure continued.
One day, Potiphar’s wife grabbed Joseph by his clothing. Instead of staying and arguing, Joseph left his garment behind and ran outside.
That moment teaches us an important lesson about boundaries.
Sometimes Walking Away Is the Answer
We often think setting a boundary requires a long explanation. Yet Joseph’s example shows that there are times when leaving is the healthiest response.
Walking away doesn’t always mean physically running from a room.
Sometimes walking away means ending a conversation. At other times, it means declining an opportunity, leaving an unhealthy environment, or refusing to take part in behavior that conflicts with your values.
Doing the Right Thing May Still Be Difficult
Joseph’s decision didn’t make his life easier.
After he rejected Potiphar’s wife, she falsely accused him. As a result, Joseph was sent to prison.
That part of the story matters.
Making a healthy or morally right decision doesn’t guarantee an easy outcome. Nevertheless, Joseph didn’t allow the possibility of consequences to change what he knew was right.
Eventually, his story took another turn. God remained with Joseph, and his circumstances changed dramatically.
What Can We Learn from Joseph?
Joseph’s story encourages us to set up boundaries before we’re under pressure.
First, know your values.
Next, recognize situations that conflict with those values.
Additionally, understand that you don’t owe everyone access to your time, energy, body, money, or peace.
Finally, giving yourself permission to leave when you stay you would require you to compromise what you know is right.
Final Thoughts
“If it feels wrong, don’t do it” doesn’t mean every uncomfortable situation is dangerous or sinful. Growth can feel uncomfortable too.
Therefore, we need wisdom to recognize the difference.
Joseph knew the difference.
He didn’t stay because he was afraid of upsetting someone. Instead, he chose his values even when the decision came with consequences.
This week, ask yourself one question:
Is there something I already know I need to say no to?
Sometimes self-care means resting.
Sometimes it means asking for help.
And sometimes it means having enough courage to simply walk away.
BibleGateway – Genesis 39 (NIV)
https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Genesis%2039&version=NIV
BibleGateway – Genesis 39:6–12 (NIV)
https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Genesis%2039%3A6-12&version=NIV
BibleProject – Genesis 12–50 Overview
https://bibleproject.com/explore/video/genesis-12-50/
National Institute of Mental Health – Caring for Your Mental Health
https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/caring-for-your-mental-health
