THEOSISJohn Chrysostom
Moreover, let us consider at what age this remarkable individual accomplished his great deeds and was rewarded. The Scripture states, "Joseph was thirty years old when he stood before Pharaoh." It is important to recognize that this detail is not included without reason; it serves as a reminder that no one can justify the neglect of virtue, and youth cannot be an excuse when it comes to demonstrating righteousness. Joseph was not only youthful but also exceptionally handsome. Yet, even youth can sometimes be accompanied by a lack of physical beauty. In his case, he possessed both youthful charm and striking looks; however, during the prime of his life, he was taken into slavery, having been brought to Egypt at the age of seventeen.
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Even in the fervor of his youth, he faced the temptation from an immoral Egyptian woman who sought to seduce him. Nevertheless, he remained steadfast in his integrity, unable to be swayed. Following this, he endured a prolonged imprisonment, yet he stood firm, becoming stronger through his trials, empowered by the grace bestowed upon him from above. Because he was faithful in his duties, he was eventually released from prison and elevated to govern all of Egypt.
With this in mind, let us not be disheartened during our own trials, nor allow our thoughts to lead us to despair. Instead, let us practice great patience and nurture hope, trusting in the Lord's providence, who allows tribulations not out of abandonment but to bestow upon us a glorious reward for our perseverance. The path to glory is paved by the suffering of the saints. Thus, the Apostles declared, "Through many tribulations we must enter the Kingdom of God" (Acts 14:22). Christ Himself reassured His disciples, saying, "In the world you will have tribulation" (John 16:33). Let us not dwell excessively on our afflictions, but instead heed Paul’s words, "those who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will be persecuted" (2 Tim. 3:12). We should not allow our spirits to become troubled or discouraged; rather, we must endure hardships with resolve and patience, focusing not on our struggles but on the spiritual benefits that arise from them, as they yield a greater reward.
Just as those who seek to accumulate wealth understand that substantial riches come with challenges and risks, being exposed to dangers at sea and on land, willingly accepting these hardships for the sake of profit, we too should approach our experiences with joy and gratitude, recognizing the spiritual treasures we gather. Let us fix our eyes on the eternal rather than the temporary, as Paul advises, saying, "we look not at the visible things" (2 Cor. 4:18). Faith is recognizing that we must not limit ourselves to what is seen with our physical eyes but rather strive to perceive the invisible with the understanding of our hearts. This perspective is more reliable than mere appearances. This is how the patriarch pleased God, believing His promises to be true, transcending natural limitations and human logic; thus, it was "accounted to him for righteousness" (Rom. 4:3). Be aware that "righteousness" is rooted in faith in God’s words. When God makes His promises, do not test them with human reasoning; rather, rise above ordinary thoughts and trust fully in the power of the One who promises.
This is the attitude exhibited by all the righteous. Likewise, Joseph faced immense temptations following his dreams but did not falter or succumb to fear; instead, he faced every challenge with courage, knowing that the divine purpose could not possibly go unfulfilled. After enduring slavery and wrongful imprisonment, he was granted authority over all Egypt. As we reflect on these examples, let us approach our challenges with a sense of peace, thanking God for His mercy and expecting the help we can receive through the grace and loving kindness of our Lord Jesus Christ. To Him, along with the Father and the Holy Spirit, be glory, power, and honor, now and forever, and to the ages of ages. Amen.