Do not Be a Chameleon

Daily Devotional – Thursday, July 27, 2023
Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord…
1 Corinthians 15:58 (NKJV)

A chameleon is renowned for its camouflaging tendency. It adopts the colour of the surface to which it attaches itself. Hence, the chameleon is the epitome of compromise and character inconsistency. In contrast, Joseph the son of Jacob exemplified character consistency, a trait all Christians should endeavour to acquire.

Unwavering Fidelity to God

As a young boy, Joseph was the favoured son of Jacob. This elicited jealousy among his older brothers. Initially, they wanted to kill him but later decided to sell him to Ishmaelite traders. From an elevated position in his family, Joseph ended up working as a slave for Potiphar in Egypt.

Joseph’s adherence to divine principles made him a faithful steward to the extent that Potiphar “…left all that he had in Joseph’s hand, and he did not know what he had except for the bread which he ate.” (Genesis 39:6). God elevated the exiled Hebrew lad in a foreign land.

Joseph Character Severely Tested

Life would further test Joseph’s character consistency through Potiphar’s wife. The immoral woman tempted the Joseph to commit immorality but Joseph retorted, “How then can I do this great wickedness, and sin against God?” (Genesis 39:9). This fidelity to God’s commandments earned Joseph a place in the Egyptian jail – another low moment in his life.

Unlike a chameleon that changes its colour according to the surrounding, Joseph maintained his piety and hardworking behaviour while in jail. “And the keeper of the prison committed to Joseph’s hand all the prisoners who were in the prison; whatever they did there, it was his doing.” (Genesis 39:22). Because God was with Joseph, the young man prospered even in jail.

Faithful in Light; Authentic in Darkness

Eventually, his exemplary character, born of loyalty to God, led Joseph to become the Chief Minister of Egypt. Even here, his prudence in practical matters was evident. His planning and implementation abilities saved not only the Egyptians but also surrounding nations from starvation.

Contrast yourself with Joseph. Are you as reverent when in public as when you are in private? Do you maintain your fidelity to God for the six days you are not in church? Are you are 24/7 Christian or a part-time churchgoer?

Do not Be a Spiritual Chameleon

Does your faith and trust in God change depending on the situation you find yourself in? For example, when negative circumstances overwhelm you, do you still maintain your calling as a Christian or you compromise and give in to sin and Satan?

Today, surrender your life fully to God. Allow Him to permeate your mind so much that His grace will be evident in your character. Refuse to become a spiritual chameleon. Determine that irrespective of your physical location and life circumstances, you will be His faithful and loyal child. “Be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord…” (1 Corinthians 15:58).

Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, dwell in me that I may be the same person in public and private and in good and bad times.