JOSEPH WAS NOT EGYPTIAN, BUT HE WAS A LEADER WITH INTEGRITY
By definition, the word integrity comes from the English language, derived from the root word "integer," which means whole, complete, or entire. It is a form of religious adherence to moral codes, values, and conduct. If we demonstrate it, integrity surpasses one's character, trustworthy action, and responsible commitment. If we may define it, integrity is the standard against bribery (incorruptibility), refusing to err against the truth, being responsible, or a pledge.
Who was Joseph? Joseph was the son of Jacob, an Israelite sold by his brothers and then became a slave in Egypt. Joseph's life far from his parents did not make him distant from God. What can we learn from his personality:
Self-integrity, disciplining behavior
Being far from relatives and family is not an excuse for someone to live recklessly. Joseph was obedient to God's word. Because from childhood as an Israelite, he learned the law of Torah taught by his parents (Deuteronomy 6). That's why Joseph's life was full of discipline; he worked as Potiphar's slave, his work was so good and responsible that he was very loved by his master Potiphar, so he was appointed as the head of the household in Potiphar's house. Joseph's life was not fabricated; he disciplined himself in such a way because he truly feared God.
Self-integrity, determining behavior
Human conditions and backgrounds are different, as are the problems they face, but there is a key code of Christian Integrity that should not be different. When facing problems and the behavior we express to people, it is very visible. Well, believers should have expressions that have been patterned in the Bible.
It's not easy to live a disciplined life; there are always challenges. The Bible records that Joseph was handsome, so it's no wonder he became the focus of women's attention. Therefore, Potiphar's wife was one of the women attracted to Joseph's personality. Potiphar's wife tempted Joseph to have an affair with her, but in such a situation, Joseph had to determine discipline in his life. He firmly refused even though he had to go to prison. Actually, if Joseph wanted to be comfortable, he could have just accepted it, and he could have even gotten a better and richer position.
Self-integrity, demonstrating behavior
Joseph clearly knew that he had an all-powerful God, and he feared God more than humans. He also believed so much in God's plans, not plans that harm, that's why whatever happened in his life, he just went through it while remaining faithful and obedient to God. Even in prison, he behaved with discipline, kindness, and generosity. He liked to help his fellow inmates. He was appointed as the head in the prison. Because he could interpret dreams, when Pharaoh dreamed of something difficult to interpret, Joseph could interpret it with a very satisfying answer. Joseph, who was not Egyptian, was appointed as the second-in-command in Egypt, especially because he was an expert in smart economic strategy at that time.
What we can learn from Joseph:
His life was very disciplined
He feared God more than he feared humans
Smart and an expert in smart economics
Did not accept bribes; if he wanted to be rich, he could have just accepted Potiphar's wife's seduction
His life was transparent, not just for show
It turns out that since ancient times, a citizen who was not of the same nationality/or in cooler terms, a non-believer, could become a leader in their country without issue.
What would the world say if today there are still countries that make an issue of this? And it is truly very sad and questionable if there are still countries that make an issue of their own citizens who were born in their country becoming leaders.
