Recently, we had some work done on our house. Upon completion, the contractor, thinking he was providing a favor, presented two invoices – one smaller (that we owed) and one larger (that he suggested we submit to insurance for reimbursement). While we declined the opportunity for fraud, I spent a few seconds trying to justify in my mind reasons to submit the false invoice to the insurance. “After all, the money could be used for needs. Insurance probably charges too much anyway. It wasn’t my idea.” The problem with this reasoning is that it invokes a faulty system of values. It places personal gain, profit, and self-provision above truth, honesty, and trust in God for provision. My story is not an isolated case of the opportunity to make this critical value determination. Every businessman encounters this challenge in expense reporting and tax reporting. Every household faces this challenge during tax season. Every salesman must decide whether to tell the whole truth or only enough to make the sale. Every preacher decides whether to preach what is needed or what is wanted. Every parent has to decide whether to choose instant affection or long-term thanks. Every student must decide between a good grade and a true grade. Every friend must choose between gratification and honesty. These choices swirl around us and confront us now. Pause for a moment and consider the choices you have made in these areas in the past week. What value system have you used to determine your actions? Do not err. Mercy and truth are far more valuable than any perceived gain from devising evil.