Thought of the day.
Integrity in the world that we are living in today implies moral incorruptibility.
1. those who cannot be bribed or compromised because we serve God rather than men (Colossians 3:17, 23; Acts 5:29).
2. We are to be people who keep our word (Matthew 5:37; James 5:12).
3. We are to love those around us in both word and deed (1 John 3:17–18; James 2:17–18; Ephesians 4:29).
4. We are called upon to believe in God and therefore to follow Him in all our ways (John 6:19; 15:1–17).
5. Our lives should line up with our belief in God and reveal a trust that His ways are best (Proverbs 3:5–6).
Living with integrity in a world where the corrupt seem favoured, not to mention our battle with our own sin nature, is extremely challenging.
1 Peter 3:13–18 gives this encouragement: “Who is going to harm you if you are eager to do good? But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed. ‘Do not fear their threats; do not be frightened.’ But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander. For it is better, if it is God’s will, to suffer for doing good than for doing evil. For Christ also suffered once for sins, the righteous for the unrighteous, to bring you to God. He was put to death in the body but made alive in the Spirit.”
To live with integrity is to follow the example of Christ. We are only able to live with true integrity by His power, which He graciously and freely gives to all who are His (John 16:33; Philippians 1:6; Ephesians 1:13–14).
Erick Bouwmeester