Joseph, a Man of Principle

[Thompson, Darryl]

Joseph, a Man of Principle 

     How can I do this great wickedness, and sin against God? Gen. 39:9


     Joseph's gentleness and fidelity won the heart of the chief
captain, who came to regard him as a son rather than a slave. . . . But
Joseph's faith and integrity were to be tested by fiery trials. His
master's wife endeavored to entice the young man to transgress the law
of God. Heretofore he had remained untainted by the corruption teeming
in that heathen land; but this temptation, so sudden, so strong, so
seductive--how should it be met? Joseph knew well what would be the
consequence of resistance. On the one hand were concealment, favor, and
rewards; on the other, disgrace, imprisonment, perhaps death. His whole
future life depended upon the decision of the moment. Would principle
triumph? Would Joseph still be true to God? With inexpressible anxiety,
the angels looked upon the scene.  

     Joseph's answer reveals the power of religious principle. He would
not betray the confidence of his master on earth, and, whatever the
consequences, he would be true to his Master in heaven. . . .  

     Joseph suffered for his integrity; for his tempter revenged herself
by accusing him of a foul crime, and causing him to be thrust into
prison. Had Potiphar believed his wife's charge against Joseph, the
young Hebrew would have lost his life; but the modesty and uprightness
that had uniformly characterized his conduct were proof of his
innocence; and yet, to save the reputation of his master's house, he was
abandoned to disgrace and bondage. . . .  

     But Joseph's real character shines out, even in the darkness of the
dungeon. He held fast his faith and patience; his years of faithful
service had been most cruelly repaid, yet this did not render him morose
or distrustful. He had the peace that comes from conscious innocence,
and he trusted his case with God.

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