Refusing Potiphar’s wife,
Joseph says (Genesis 39:8–9):
“How then could I do such a wicked thing and sin against God?”
In its biblical context,
his refusal is rightly read
as an act of faith.
Yet, just once,
may we tilt our heads a little
and ask a crooked question?
What if
his refusal was simply
because she was not his type?
Of course,
we cannot assert such a thing.
But the question itself is possible.
We often invoke
the name of God
when it comes to what we want
and what we do not want.
“Because God wants me to.”
“Because God is not pleased.”
In that moment,
the subject of desire
quietly shifts.
I disappear,
and God remains.
But in reality,
it is often the other way around.
The name of God
ceases to be the language
that reveals our decision,
and becomes instead
a shield that conceals it.
Faith
is not a technique
for eliminating desire,
but the courage
to face it.
If you want something,
say plainly
that you want it.
If you do not want something,
say simply
that you do not.
Do not rush
to justify your choices
in God’s name.
That Name
is not the wrapping paper
of our desires,
but a mirror
that reflects our being.
Let us examine ourselves thoroughly,
and become a little more exact.