Saturday, April 20, 2013

Christ-Like Attitude (4): Integrity



Integrity is a character quality of someone who has sound moral judgment. They don't compromise truth. They deal honestly with others. Integrity can only be achieved by listening to the Holy Spirit. Integrity is something that you prove you have during difficult situations. It is being able to make the right decision even though it may cost you something. If know in your heart that you made the right decision, you don't have to worry about getting caught or exposed. Walking with integrity is one of the best ways to prove that you are become more mature in your walk with Jesus. - Culled from YouVersion

“Now, who will want to harm you if you are eager to do good? But even if you suffer for doing what is right, God will reward you for it. So don’t worry or be afraid of their threats. Instead, you must worship Christ as Lord of your life. And if someone asks about your Christian hope, always be ready to explain it.But do this in a gentle and respectful way. Keep your conscience clear. Then if people speak against you, they will be ashamed when they see what a good life you live because you belong to Christ. Remember, it is better to suffer for doing good, if that is what God wants, than to suffer for doing wrong!” (1 Peter 3:13-17)
“And you yourself must be an example to them by doing good works of every kind. Let everything you do reflect the integrity and seriousness of your teaching.Teach the truth so that your teaching can’t be criticized. Then those who oppose us will be ashamed and have nothing bad to say about us.” (Titus 2:7-8)

It is easier to try and compromise, but the truth sets us free. Most times integrity has to deal with our own attitudes when no one is looking. We have to stand strong on what we believe at all times. I once heard a Christian brother challenge himself to pay street parking even when he knew clearly that the officials were on strike and him parking there could be for hours or even days without a parking ticket, yet he paid - Now that’s integrity.
We have to challenge ourselves daily to develop integrity, in that way we would not be afraid that we had done or said something wrong and those who oppose us will be put to shame. I do pray that we continue to develop our christian qualities and our actions will speak louder than words in this World.
Maranatha. Shalom