Integrity Matters
I learned at a very young age that what you say should match up with what you do and who you are. Integrity is defined as: adherence to moral and ethical principles; soundness of moral character; honesty. This is easier to say than to do. I believe our character is often tested in secret, but eventually gets revealed. Who I am and what I do when no one is watching is really who I am. The person I am that is noticed in public should be the same as the one the Lord knows privately.
King David lived in the public spotlight for sure as king. His sin with Bathsheba made the national inquirer for sure. He had a tremendous lapse in integrity and judgment. He did repent profoundly and the Lord restored David’s life. He is known as a “man after God’s own heart”. What an incredible compliment to David and his heart for God.
At the end of his life, David really finishes strong. He gets the materials list together so that Solomon can build the Temple. David also donates generously from his personal wealth. He gathers everyone together and challenges them to support the building of the Temple as well as support his son Solomon as king. He starts off with a praise song and ends with a charge/challenge of sorts. Check this out…
17 I know, my God, that you test the heart and are pleased with integrity. All these things I have given willingly and with honest intent. And now I have seen with joy how willingly your people who are here have given to you. 18 Lord, the God of our fathers Abraham, Isaac and Israel, keep these desires and thoughts in the hearts of your people forever, and keep their hearts loyal to you. 19 And give my son Solomon the wholehearted devotion to keep your commands, statutes and decrees and to do everything to build the palatial structure for which I have provided.” (1 Chronicles 29:17-19 NIV)
I’m asking the Lord to test my heart this morning. I want Him to look through the “nooks and crannies” of my heart to see if there is something in my heart that needs to be removed. I want the Lord to see the honest intent of my heart. I want Him to help me to live a life of integrity and honesty that is without question. I want to consistently walk with Him and listen to Him speak into my heart. I want Him to help me eradicate pride from my heart. I want the person that I am in His Presence to be the person I am all day – every day. I do believe that integrity matters to God. I do believe integrity matters in every relationship that I have.
Pressing On!
Dwayne