We have all heard this saying. Basically, we are asking if when a tree falls when no one is there to see it, does it make a noise, or is it something that will only be heard if it is seen. Of course it does. Just because nobody is looking or nobody cares at that moment, the tree will still create a large THUD when it hits the ground. With this in mind, why do we act with integrity when people are watching, yet forget about it when we are by ourselves. If we only operate in integrity when we might be praised for it, is it really integrity, or merely self-praise coming from others. "Oh, I will be a good Christian on Sunday when I am in church. I'll come to Wednesday night service. I'll help out in Kids Church, or the Food pantry. What about the rest of the week, when you are by yourself, or even surrounded by people who don't know you as a Christian? Upon looking at you, do they see that same integrity? Would they use that word to describe you to other coworkers, or your boss? When questioned if you would do the right thing even when the wrong way of doing things is much easier, would they trust you could do it the right way, even if it took a little longer? Imagine you were assigned to do a task entirely by yourself. You know that there are two ways to accomplish the task, the easy way, and the right way. Nobody will be grading or watching how you do the work, as long as it gets finished. Is your first response to take the easy road, or the road of integrity that will ultimately give you a better end result. Merriam Webster dictionary gives this definition for integrity-firm adherence to a code of especially moral or artistic values; an unimpaired condition; the quality or state of being complete or undivided. In simpler terms, this is saying that even when no one is looking, you still hold the integrity as if someone were looking in from the outside. Not because someone is looking, but because even when they aren't we should walk the same path with or without an audience.
"Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable- if anything is excellent or praiseworthy-think about such things."- Philippians 4:8
"To do what is right and just is more acceptable to the Lord than sacrifice."- Proverbs 21:3
"Keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander." 1 Peter 3:16
"I know that you are pleased with me, for my enemy does not triumph over me. 12 Because of my Integrity, you uphold me and set me in your presence forever."-Psalm 41:11-12
Verse after verse of examples in the Bible showing that if we walk in integrity, we will be in God's favor and grace. Living a life of integrity ensures that though accusations will arise against us, the people around us will testify about our integrity and know these accusations are false and have no ground to stand upon. Live a life of integrity for in the end, it will be the strongest witness in your walk.
Adam Semple-A Young Man on a Mission From God
*photo credit-dlotravelblog@blogspot.com
No comments:
Post a Comment