‘He who walks with integrity walks securely, but he who perverts his ways will become known.’ Proverbs 10:9 NKJV
What would you say is the single most important characteristic of a person who wants to be successful and make a difference in the world? Some would say intelligence. After all, knowledge is power in numerous ways. Others argue it is intensity, that spirit of conquest supplemented with a passion that becomes contagious. Yet others propose that it is insight, good old common sense accompanied by the ability to clearly perceive certain issues.
The Bible says the most important quality in success is integrity: ‘He who walks with integrity walks securely, but he who perverts his ways will become known.’ You will eventually ‘become known’ by your integrity or the lack of it. We have all known people along life’s road who possess extraordinary intelligence but no integrity, and they are no longer in the race. Others with great intensity and passion but little integrity have ended up the same way. The same result is true of people with great insight but no integrity. The thesaurus equates integrity with such words as ‘honesty, completeness, and incorruptibility’.
Integrity begins in your private world; the part of you that’s known only to God and yourself. Then it shows up in your personal world; the part of you that you reveal to a small circle of intimate family members and possibly a few friends. After that comes your professional world. Here people know you by your product, your work ethic, or your skill set. And they all ask the same question: ‘Can I trust you?’ Finally, your integrity shows up in your public world. So here is the question: do you have integrity?
Integrity is a highly valued virtue that encompasses honesty, moral uprightness, and consistency in thoughts, words, and actions. It is often associated with being trustworthy and having strong moral principles. The Bible offers numerous insights on integrity, emphasizing its importance in a person’s life. Here are ten additional points on integrity along with corresponding verses from the Bible.
1. Integrity builds trust: People who walk with integrity gain the trust of others, fostering strong and meaningful relationships.
Bible Verse: “The righteous man walks in his integrity; His children are blessed after him.” – Proverbs 20:7
2. Integrity leads to righteousness: Upholding integrity paves the way for righteous living and aligns one’s actions with God’s will.
Bible Verse: “Better is a poor man who walks in his integrity than a rich man who is crooked in his ways.” – Proverbs 28:6
3. Integrity brings blessings: Those who maintain their integrity are often rewarded with God’s blessings and favor.
Bible Verse: “For the Lord God is a sun and shield; The Lord bestows favor and honor; no good thing does he withhold from those whose walk is blameless.” – Psalm 84:11
4. Integrity requires transparency: Being open and honest in all aspects of life reflects a person’s commitment to integrity.
Bible Verse: “Whoever walks in integrity walks securely, but whoever takes crooked paths will be found out.” – Proverbs 10:9
5. Integrity withstands temptation: Individuals with unwavering integrity are less likely to succumb to unethical or immoral choices.
Bible Verse: “The integrity of the upright guides them, but the unfaithful are destroyed by their duplicity.” – Proverbs 11:3
6. Integrity in speech: Those with integrity speak truthfully and use their words to edify and encourage others.
Bible Verse: “The one who has clean hands and a pure heart, who does not trust in an idol or swear by a false god.” – Psalm 24:4
7. Integrity in financial matters: Maintaining integrity in financial dealings, including being honest in business transactions, is highly regarded.
Bible Verse: “Better is a little with righteousness than great revenues with injustice.” – Proverbs 16:8
8. Integrity in leadership: Leaders who walk in integrity inspire trust and effectively guide others.
Bible Verse: “The integrity of the upright guides them, but the unfaithful are destroyed by their duplicity.” – Proverbs 11:3
9. Integrity in relationships: Honesty and faithfulness are essential components of maintaining integrity in relationships.
Bible Verse: “Whoever goes about slandering reveals secrets, but he who is trustworthy in spirit keeps a thing covered.” – Proverbs 11:13
10. Integrity in adversity: Upholding integrity even in challenging times demonstrates unwavering faith and reliance on God.
Bible Verse: “But the Lord is faithful. He will establish you and guard you against the evil one.” – 2 Thessalonians 3:3
In summary, integrity is a character trait that has lasting benefits. Walking in integrity brings security, trust, blessings, and guidance. It is a vital aspect of one’s relationship with God and others, impacting various aspects of life.
