"Whoever walks in integrity walks securely, but whoever takes crooked paths will be found out." - Proverbs 10:9 (NIV)
Walking in integrity requires consistency in every aspect of your life, committing to excellence not only in your career but also in your marriage, parenting, work, and ministry. A small Bible study group, or a P4 group, can encourage and stand alongside you as you learn to rely on the Holy Spirit to add integrity to each area of your life.
Here are six ways you can practice walking in integrity in your life:
- Fulfilling your promises. Men of integrity honor their commitments. When they say they will do something, they follow through. When they promise to be present, they show up. As Proverbs 25:14 states, "People who don't keep their promises are like clouds and wind that bring no rain".
- Being responsible with your finances. Although it may seem trivial, managing your financial obligations with integrity matters to God. Avoid spending more than you earn and accumulating debts you can't repay. Psalm 37:21 reminds us, "The wicked borrow and never repay".
- Rejecting gossip. God seeks men of integrity who can be entrusted with confidences and avoid spreading them through gossip. Refrain from speaking ill of others behind their backs, and refuse to engage in listening to such talk. Proverbs 11:13 highlights that "a gossip can't be trusted with a secret, but someone of integrity won't violate a confidence."
- Faithfully being generous. Where you prioritize your money reflects your values. In Malachi 3:8-10, God challenges us not to cheat Him but to bring our tithes and offerings faithfully. He promises to pour out abundant blessings when we honor Him in this way.
- Excelling in your work. Colossians 3:23 encourages us to work wholeheartedly, as if we were working for the Lord rather than for people. Remember that God is your ultimate master, and your diligence and commitment matter to Him, even when others may not notice.
- Be authentic in all relationships. A person of integrity doesn't wear masks in different settings. Whether at church, work, or leisure, choose to be genuine and sincere.
What do you need to improve to develop more integrity in your life?
