The Power of a "No"

Scripture: Genesis 39:8-9 – "But he refused. … How could I do such a great evil and sin against God?"

Devotional: When temptation comes, your "no" carries spiritual weight. Joseph wasn’t just saying no to Potiphar’s wife. He was declaring allegiance to God. Sexual sin is never just physical. It’s a spiritual battle. Every time you say no, you're choosing to honor God over temporary pleasure.
Joseph had every excuse to justify sin. He was lonely. Betrayed. Forgotten. He could’ve thought, "I deserve this. No one will know. Why not?"
But his response was rooted in a bigger truth: "How could I sin against God?" The stakes were higher than personal comfort. Joseph knew that sin doesn’t stay hidden. It corrupts, enslaves, and spreads. Saying no is not about repression. It’s about freedom.
You might feel worn down. Temptation might come daily, just like it did for Joseph. But keep choosing no. Each time you do, you become stronger. Each no draws you closer to the God who gives you power to resist.

Prayer: Lord, give me the courage to say no when it counts. Help me see sin for what it truly is—a trap that separates me from You. Strengthen my will to choose holiness over compromise. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Reflection Questions:
 1. What excuses have you believed that make sin seem justifiable?
 2. What does your "no" say about your relationship with God?
 3. What truth can you hold onto the next time you’re tempted?