The lack of integrity that is prevalent in our world today comes with a huge cost. The price we pay is a loss of trust. Trust is absolutely essential in order for a society, a business, or a relationship to function well. It’s simple: No integrity equals no trust.
Integrity is when our behavior matches our beliefs. It’s when what we say and what we do match up. We have integrity when our private life and our public life align. It’s when we walk our talk and practice what we preach.

Why should we live a life of integrity?
1. Integrity keeps us close to God.
King David shared this belief in Psalm 24:3-4, “Who may climb the mountain of the Lord? Who may stand in his holy place? Only those whose hands and hearts are pure, who do not worship idols and never tell lies.”
2. Integrity guides our life.
It was King David’s son Solomon who wrote in Proverbs 11:3, “The integrity of the upright guides them…” When values and principles like love for God, love for others, honesty, generosity, courage, and a deep sense of right and wrong become part of our character, they guide us through the rest of our lives.
3. Integrity brings peace.
There is a saying that says, “There is no pillow as soft as a clear conscience.” Imagine living life where we never have to worry about getting caught. Imagine never having to worry about getting found out–by the boss, our friend, our spouse. Imagine having no secrets; no worries about being exposed. When we live with integrity, we will live in peace because our conscience stops condemning us.
4. Integrity earns us trust and influence.
As I have already mentioned, where there is little or no integrity, there is no trust. Relationships fail, businesses fail, politicians don’t get elected.(well some still do). But with integrity great things can happen. Because of high levels of trust, parents can have an incredible influence with their children, teachers can influence their students, husbands and wives can enjoy deep levels of intimacy, and businesses will do better selling their products and services. All of this is possible because of trust.

Erick Bouwmeester
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