Say “NO”, so they may know..!!

Let’s read Genesis 39:9b, Daniel 3:16-18 & Matthew 4: 8-11 in tandem

Joseph said to Potiphar’s Wife - “….How then could I do such a wicked thing and SIN AGAINST GOD?”

Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego replied, “O Nebuchadnezzar, we do not need to defend ourselves before you. If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God whom we serve is able to save us. He will rescue us from your power, Your Majesty. But even if he doesn’t, we want to make it clear to you, Your Majesty, that WE WILL NEVER SERVE YOUR gods OR WORSHIP THE GOLD STATUE YOU HAVE SET UP.”

“….the devil took him to a very high mountain and showed him all the kingdoms of the world and their splendor. “All this I will give you,” he said, “if you will bow down and worship me.” Jesus said to him, “Away from me, Satan! For it is written: ‘WORSHIP THE LORD YOUR GOD, AND SERVE HIM ONLY.” Then the devil left him, and angels came and attended him.

The former Prime Minister of UK Tony Blair once said this – “The art of leadership is saying NO, not yes. It is very easy to say yes.” This is true not only in leadership but also in any relationship. The mark of a true disciple of Christ is to have the unshaken willingness to say “NO” to sin, no matter how attractive or compulsive it may present itself to be. 

Joseph had everything going in his favour (read Genesis 39) till he faced a tricky challenge that demanded great levels of self-control to overcome sin. He was quick to respond, and respond the right way. He said “NO” being aware of the fact that he could lose everything he had, including his job. Although he did lose his job and spent a brief time in prison, the Lord was with him and gave him success in whatever he did and restored his good reputation.

Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego (read Daniel 3) said “NO” to a man who was more powerful in stature than the likes of today’s Obamas. Eventually, King Nebuchadnezzar himself testified “Praise be to the God of Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego, who has sent his angel and rescued his servants!” Then the king promoted Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego in the province of Babylon.

Jesus said “NO” to Satan and “YES” to His heavenly father AND SERVED HIM ONLY all the days of His earthly life. “Because of that obedience, God lifted him high and honoured him far beyond anyone or anything” (Philippians 2:9MSG)

Are you ready to say “NO” to sin….ALWAYS..??