The Value of Integrity

¹² But you have upheld me because of my integrity, and set me in your presence forever. Psalm 41:12 (ESV)

in•teg•ri•ty  noun 1: firm adherence to a code of especially moral or artistic values : incorruptibility 2an unimpaired condition : soundness 3: the quality or state of being complete or undivided : completeness^[1]

Living a life of high integrity is not easy work but has extremely valuable benefits. A life of strong integrity outlasts the life itself moving into the legacy that is left long after the person leaves this life. However, seeing living lives of high integrity seem to be seen less and less in the 21^st century. Whether it is in the lives of the people we associate with on a daily basis or the people in leadership and in the lime light of today’s society, integrity seems to be diminishing rapidly.

This regression of such a distinguishing character trait has to have a reason. Could it be that people today can not see the value of integrity? Is it something that is forgotten rather than expected? David uses this word in conjunction with a precept that is beyond human imagination. He said because of his integrity he would be before the presence of the Almighty, Creator God forever. Now we are talking value; value that surpasses any human motive to live a life of integrity. Let me ask you, if the people of the United States of America could see this kind of value in living a life of integrity, in every aspect of their lives not just where people could see them, how would it change our society?

Several OT characters are designated persons of integrity: Noah (Gen. 6:9); Abraham (Gen. 17:1); Jacob (Gen. 25:27); Job (Job 1:1, 8; 2:3); and David (1 Kings 9:4).^[2] Their walk of faith moved them to a life of integrity. So is it that a life of strong faith produces a life of integrity? The word is used twenty-five times in the Bible but only once in the New Testament. Paul told Titus to ⁷ Show yourself in all respects to be a model of good works, and in your teaching show integrity, dignity, ⁸ and sound speech that cannot be condemned, so that an opponent may be put to shame, having nothing evil to say about us (Titus 2:7–8).

A few of things can be seen here in this text. First, integrity can be taught and passed on. Just like anything else that is taught well or is of importance to be taught the best way to teach it is by living and showing it in our lives. Second, it encompasses much more than image. It encompasses our speech, our actions, every aspect of our lives. It is deep and very valuable. Third, it is the opposite of shame. No one wants to be in a state of shame, we all seek acceptance with others. Last, it is communal. Paul doesn’t tell Titus to have integrity just for himself but for the benefit of both of them (V.8b).

Bottom line, living a life of integrity is obtainable, teachable and has value beyond our wildest imaginations. I encourage you to commit to it, make it a lifestyle. Don’t just expect it from others, live it in yourself. Don’t just wish for it in our society, teach it in our society first by living it in your own life and then in words and encouragement to others. Do it with intentionality all to the glory of God (1 Cor. 10:31). Ask the Holy Spirit to teach you and show you areas you may be missing in your own life that relates to your integrity. Ask Him and He will show you great and mighty things you do not yet know (Jer. 33:3). Take nothing for granted but everything in subject to the Lord that you may prove His good and acceptable and perfect will (Rom. 12:3).

Lord Jesus, send forth Your Holy Spirit to teach us how to live a life of integrity for Your glory. Amen.

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^[1] Inc Merriam-Webster, Merriam-Webster's Collegiate Dictionary., Eleventh ed. (Springfield, Mass.: Merriam-Webster, Inc., 2003).

^[2] Chad Brand, Charles Draper, Archie England et al., Holman Illustrated Bible Dictionary, 827 (Nashville, TN: Holman Bible Publishers, 2003).