I. Run away from sin like Joseph

A. At 17 – sold into slavery by his own brothers (Gen 37)
B. Due to his integrity, was trusted by Potiphar (Gen 39:1-6)
C. He not only resisted, he fled from temptation (Gen 39:7-12)
D. Despite slanderous accusations, Joseph trusted God and God blessed Joseph (Gen 39:21-23)
E. Despite the forgetfulness of others, Joseph trusted God and God blessed Joseph (Gen 40ff)
F. Even when exalted to a lofty position—in Potiphar’s house, among the prisoners, and in all the land—Joseph trusted God and God blessed Joseph
G. When you are tempted, remember Joseph who ran from sin

II. Run to God like Josiah

A. At only 8 – Josiah was made king after the death of his father Amon, who “did evil in the sight of the LORD” (2 Chr 33:22), but Josiah wanted to do the right thing (34:1-2)
B. At 16 – he sought God (2 Chronicles 34:3)
C. At 20 – he fought against idolatry (2 Chronicles 34:4-7)
D. At 26 – he was introduced to the written Law when the scroll was discovered in the temple, and Josiah mourned the condition of the people (2 Chronicles 34:8, 14, 19)
E. Josiah committed himself and his kingdom to obedience (2 Chronicles 34:31, 33)
F. When you see shortcomings in your life, remember Josiah and run to God

III. The responsibility of the older generation

A. Parents – teach by word and example (2 Timothy 1:3-5; 3:14-15)
B. Men – teach those who are younger how a Christian man should act (Titus 2:6-8) – train them for future service (deacons, preachers, elders)
C. Women – teach younger ladies how a Christian woman behaves (Titus 2:3-5) – train them for future service (teachers, wives of deacons, preachers, elders)

1 Timothy 4:12, Let no one despise your youth, but be an example to the believers in word, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity.