A newspaper reported an unusual incident at a fast-food restaurant. The manager had put the day's cash in a paper bag for deposit that night, but an attendant mistook it for an order and gave it to a couple at the drive-through window.

A short time later, when the man and woman opened the bag in a nearby park, they were shocked by its contents. They immediately drove back to return it.

The manager had reported a robbery, so police cars and a TV crew were on the scene. How relieved he was to get the money back! He said to the couple, "You should be featured on the evening news for your honesty." "Oh, please, no publicity!" replied the man nervously. "She's not my wife."

To be honest with another's money but dishonest with another's spouse isn't being consistent. Moral soundness in one's whole character is called integrity. This character quality was clearly evident in the life of Joseph. Potiphar had entrusted all he owned to Joseph (Gen. 39:6). And when Potiphar's wife tried to seduce him, Joseph maintained his integrity by refusing her advances (vv.8-12). It cost him dearly, but ultimately it yielded great rewards (41:37-50:26).

Lord, give us a passion for that kind of integrity.  — Dennis J. De Haan