Integrity is one of the most important characteristics in the life of every believer. It is the measure that God used to boast of Job in heaven. Today I want to share with you 4 ways to develop and retain your integrity.
“Then the LORD said to Satan, “Have you considered My servant Job, that there is none like him on the earth, a blameless and upright man, one who fears God and shuns evil? And still he holds fast to his integrity, although you incited Me against him, to destroy him without cause.”” Job 2:3 NKJV
Integrity: The state of being whole or complete; upright; uncompromising, steadfast adherence to moral and ethical principles; soundness of moral character; Sexual purity, honesty and worthy of respect.
A person of integrity is one who no matter the circumstances and no matter what is surrounding him; remains in one piece; she does not change her mind overnight saying today I serve God, not tomorrow, today I long for the holiness and presence of God and tomorrow I don’t. Today I want to fulfill the Word and the purpose of God and tomorrow I will not. The person with integrity has the ability to withdraw and humble himself when he has made a mistake; but at the same time remain firm in your posture when others around you retract from the truth.
In heaven we see a powerful demonstration of lack of integrity when a third of the angels rebelled against God.
“And I remind you of the angels who did not stay within the limits of authority God gave them but left the place where they belonged. God has kept them securely chained in prisons of darkness, waiting for the great day of judgment.” Jude 1:6 NLT
There is a judgment and consequences for our lives when we do not walk in integrity. This example does not concern us, but it shows us the seriousness and importance that God gives to integrity.
As Christians we testify with our walk….
Here are a few lessons from Job to consider when developing a character of integrity:
- Every day sanctify yourself in the presence of God; repent from wrong doings and ask the Lord to guide you in all truth. Job 1:5
- When you go through trials and tribulation; where you loose things and people that are precious to you; do no turn away from God!
Job 1:13-20 - DO NOT BLAME GOD Job 1:21-22
- Remain thankful when it’s hard. Job 2:10