This morning I was reading the story of Joseph's troubles in Egypt. In Genesis 39 we learn that he worked faithfully and brought prosperity to the home of his master. Even so, the master's wife accuses him of wrong and Joseph is cast into prison.
Joseph had refused to violate his Master's trust. The wife who accuses Joseph is not so trustworthy. Even so, her words are taken over Joseph's and he is the one who suffers.
It is unfair and unjust that the righteous should be the one to suffer. But it is a reality that doing the right thing does not always mean you will be honored or treated fairly.
Part of the reason doing the right thing brings hardship is its exposure of the wrong being done by another. A honorable life casts an favorable light on a life consumed by self-indulgence.
Another reason is the need to have affirmation for the choices we have made. When I choose, I want to be affirmed in my choice by others choosing the same option. This may be particularly true when i worry that the choice was a bad one in the first place.
I wish it were not so, but we are not always sure that our right choices will result in fair treatment. I wish it were not so, but sometimes we are made to suffer as a result of our choosing the right thing.
It sounds trite to say "God notices," but this is my reply. And God's notice implies the affirmation of a life lived well. There may be set-backs and bumps in the road, but the road is well built and takes us on a marvelous journey. Remain firm in doing the right thing. It is the right thing to do. And if some around you criticize you for doing the right thing, surround yourself with those who will recognize your faithfulness and your admirable principals.
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