Integrity is a word that interests me a lot. I believe that it’s closely akin to honesty or having a sense of truthfulness. The word integrity “comprises of perceived consistency of actions, values, methods, measures and principles,” this is the way Wikipedia (the free internet encyclopedia) defines it. The ninth edition of the Concise Oxford Dictionary has it as, “moral uprightness, honesty, wholeness or soundness.”
There is an old saying that, “if having a good reputation is like gold, then having integrity is like owing a goldmine.” At the same time, I believe that integrity is the result of having our lives well integrated around the truths of God’s Word. It is written in the Bible that, “The integrity of the upright will guide them, but the perversity of the unfaithful will destroy them (Proverbs 11:3 -NKJV).”
Now here’s how the Almighty God cautions us with His most Fatherly advice, He says that, “He's already made it plain how to live, what to do, what God is looking for in men and women. It's quite simple: Do what is fair and just to your neighbour, be compassionate and loyal in your love, and don't take yourself too seriously - take God seriously (Micah 6:8 The Message).
This is probably what King David must have discovered when he said in Psalm 26:1-3, “vindicate me, O LORD, for I have walked in my integrity. I have also trusted in the LORD; I shall not slip. Examine me, O LORD, and prove me; try my mind and my heart. For Your lovingkindness is before my eyes, and I have walked in Your truth.” David was expressing himself here before God - his maker, in all sincerity and without arrogance. This is a great a challenge for me indeed, and may be for you too. Can I frankly express myself before the Almighty God – who sees and knows everything – in such a manner as King David in the above passage of scripture? If not, then I must aspire do so by the help of God.
I believe that from the foregoing one can easily say that integrity is a matter of truth, faith and courage – such virtues that lead to strength and stability in the life of a person. I believe that this is part of God’s plan for you and me today; in the face of changing times He wants us to remain stable, guided by our integrity and unswerving in our adherence to His Word. A life of integrity is a blessed life.
Uche
http://houseofvirtue.blogspot.com
2 comments:
This Post on Integrity is something that God Himself wanted the the Nation of Isreal to have and show during their trials and tribulations as they traveled towards the land promised them. We too must be staunch believers in this concept. Very nice Post!
@ Nomad Flavor: Thanks for your commentary. I believe so too & I agree with you on that. God bless you.
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