I have been blessed to have quite a few men and women of integrity in my life. There were so many times when they challenged me to be better without saying a word. Their actions spoke volumes about their honesty, work ethic, concern for the less fortunate, and their generosity.
The word “integrity” comes from the word, “integer.” It is a mathematical term for a whole number as opposed to a fraction. When someone walks in integrity, it simply means that person tells the whole truth and not just a fraction of it. The same type of person will give their employer 100% and not 90%. He or she will be faithful to their spouse all the time, even when tempted beyond measure.
Proverbs 11:3 says, “The integrity of the upright shall guide them: but the perverseness of transgressors shall destroy them.” Once we decide to be persons of integrity, that very decision becomes our guide to doing what is right.
What is of more importance to God? Is it all of the ministries we become involved in, or is it that we are a people of consistent integrity?
“To do justice and judgement is more acceptable to the Lord than sacrifice.” Proverbs 11:3
That verse answers the question for us. The Lord prefers sound integrity to our sacrifice in areas of ministry. He knows that if we make that choice, the service will likely follow.
This life is a proving ground for heaven. I truly believe that those of us that finish well will excel in eternity. Our greatest rewards in paradise will likely be positions of responsibility rather than possessions. We must prove in this life that we can be responsible in the next. A huge part of the test involves integrity. All of those I have known that had great integrity were also incredibly responsible.
Parents and grandparents, are we teaching our children or grandchildren the great Christian quality of integrity? We will, if we love them enough.
“Eternity is a gigantic exclamation point placed at the end of every life. Once there, the die has been cast and our choice made.” (From The Fiddle by Wayne Hudson)