The Jewels Under the Saddle!

“The integrity of the upright will guide them, But the crookedness of the treacherous will destroy them.” Proverbs 11:3.

I read a story titled JEWELS UNDER THE SADDLE. It was a story about a merchant and a Camel seller who came across each other at the marketplace. They are both skilled in negotiating and striking a deal at all times. The camel seller, pleased with his skill of worming out what he felt was an excellent price, parted with his camel, and the merchant chuffed that he had struck a fantastic bargain, proudly walked home with the latest addition to his large livestock.

On arriving home, the merchant called his servant to help him take out the camel’s saddle. The unwieldy, heavily padded saddle was too difficult for the servant to manage on his own. However, something was hidden under the saddle; the servant found a small velvet pouch that he discovered on opening to be filled with precious jewels.

The servant was overexcited. “Master, you bought a camel, but see what came FREE along with it.”

Isaiah 56:11 says, “The dogs have a mighty appetite; they never have enough. But they are shepherds who have no understanding; they have all turned to their way, each to his gain, one and all.”

The merchant was astonished as he looked at the jewels in his servants’ palm. They were of extraordinary quality sparkling and twinkling in the sunlight. “I bought the camel,” he said, “not the jewels. Therefore, I must return them to the camel seller immediately.” Can you imagine if you are in that situation? Would you be willing to give it back, or would you rather take it? What is your answer? – Keep the answer to yourself- but remember that integrity pays.

The servant was shocked. his master was foolish. “Master, no, one will know.” However, the merchant headed right back to the market and handed the velvet pouch back to the camel seller. The camel seller was pleased, ” I had forgotten that I hid these jewels in the saddle for safekeeping.” “Here, choose one of the jewels for yourself as a reward.” Brethren, let us set our conscience clear and declare the Christ-like behavior. 1 Peter 3:16 says, “Having a good conscience, so that when you are slandered, those who revile your good behavior in Christ may be put to shame.”

Prayer:
Oh Lord, grant me the heart to be truthful and faithful in Jesus’ name. Amen.