Joseph's Beauty

    The comeliness of Joseph was a link in the chain of Providence that was essentially necessary to bring about the destined end. It was this that drew the attention of his mistress, and was the occasion of his being sent to prison. Accordingly, it is stated in this view by the inspired historian. Immediately before the account of her infamous attempt, it is said, "And Joseph was a goodly person, and well-favoured." Here we see not only that a Divine Providence was immediately engaged in bringing about the imprisonment of Joseph, but that it was in the view of God even in the formation of Joseph. This comeliness was given him for the very purpose. Had Joseph been an ordinary man, he would not have been sent to prison. Had he not been a remarkably handsome man, his virtue would not have been put to the test. Beauty, and wealth, and honour, and health, are all blessings of Providence, for which they ought to be thankful who possess them. But they are all the occasions of trial; andwithout divine strength to resist temptation may be the occasion of fall and ruin. Let every Christian, then, watch and guard against the temptation to which his providential gift may expose him. A victory over temptation, like that of Joseph, is never to be expected, except in the strength of the faith and of the God of Abraham.