Joseph’s Code:
The Ten Maxims
01 / I will face life squarely – alone if necessary.
Joseph’s life was marked by moments of complete isolation — betrayed by his brothers, sold into slavery, and later imprisoned for a crime he didn’t commit. Yet, he stood firm in the face of adversity, even when there was no one to defend him. To “face life squarely” is to meet challenges head-on without compromising integrity; this may mean standing alone when the crowd chooses an easier path. Like Joseph, you may find yourself in a season where no one else understands your struggle. True resilience grows when choosing courage and conviction over comfort.
02 / I will not become bitter.
Joseph had every reason to resent his brothers, Potiphar’s wife, and those who forgot him in prison. Yet, when given the chance, he extended forgiveness rather than revenge. Choosing not to become bitter doesn’t mean ignoring pain — it means processing it, learning from it, and releasing it. Otherwise, that bitterness grows into resentment. Joseph’s freedom began long before he left prison; it began the moment he refused to let injustice define his spirit. Let go of bitterness, and you’ll open the door for healing and growth in places you thought were forever broken.
03 / I will give the best I have to give – no matter what.
Giving your best regardless of circumstances means living by your standards, not seeking validation from others. In Potiphar’s house, in prison, and in Pharaoh’s court, Joseph consistently put his best foot forward. He didn’t wait for ideal conditions or perfect recognition. Joseph’s diligence in smaller roles—managing a household and a prison—prepared him to govern a nation. Likewise, the way you handle today’s responsibilities shapes the resilience you’ll need for tomorrow’s big moments. Give your best now, and your work will speak for you when it truly counts.
04 / I will rule my passions.
Passions left unchecked can destroy reputations, relationships, and futures. Joseph holding steadfast in the face of temptation is more than a moral stance — it is an act of self-governance. To “rule your passions” means mastering desires so they serve you, not control you. This principle isn’t about denying the reality of temptation; it’s about choosing discipline and purpose over impulse and pleasure. Like Joseph, who valued his integrity above momentary satisfaction, you too can set boundaries that protect your true calling.
05 / I will not despair.
Despair suggests the story is over — but Joseph’s life shows that even the darkest chapters are not the end. Years in prison could have broken his spirit, yet he held on to hope and remained faithful. Refusing despair is an act of defiance against hopelessness. It’s choosing to believe that God can still bring beauty from ashes, even when it seems unlikely. Your current valley may be the very path to your breakthrough if you keep showing up, trusting, and building resilience like Joseph for when the opportunity comes.
06 / I will be humble.
Even when Joseph rose to power, his humility showed he never forgot the source of his wisdom and success. Humility isn’t undervaluing yourself — it means recognizing your gifts are entrusted, not owned. Humility listens more than it boasts, serves more than it demands, and values people over position. Joseph could have used his power to glorify himself, but instead, he used it to save others. In a world that celebrates self-promotion, being humble is a quiet, yet powerful strength.
07 / I will not seek vengeance.
When Joseph’s brothers stood before him, vulnerable and afraid, he chose reconciliation instead of revenge. Revenge may lead to short term satisfaction, but it continues the cycle whereas forgiveness opens the door to new opportunities. Joseph’s choice to bless those who betrayed him preserved his family and fulfilled a much larger plan. By not seeking vengeance, you are making room for resilience and restoration.
08 / I will respect the person and property of others.
Integrity shines when we respect what belongs to those around us — whether possessions, reputation, or boundaries. Joseph, entrusted with Potiphar’s household, honored that trust. Respecting others means recognizing what is theirs and safeguarding it as you would your own. It fosters trust, peace, and healthy relationships. In a culture of entitlement, choosing respect fosters trust and healthy relationships.
09 / I will honor the members of my family.
Honoring family means extending grace, seeking reconciliation, and valuing those relationships even when things are complicated. Joseph’s family wounded him deeply, yet he cared for them in their time of need. Family is a foundation and honoring those relationships builds resilience for new relationships down the road.
10 / I will honor my creator.
Joseph’s unwavering faith in his Creator was evident throughout every stage of his life. Honoring your Creator means aligning your life and gifts with His purposes. This principle is the anchor for all the others, for without it, resilience becomes self-reliance. Joseph lived with an awareness that his life was part of a bigger story. Honoring your Creator will keep you on the right path no matter what comes your way.