Integrity is one of the values most often associated with Christianity. The Bible is clear in its declarations that integrity is essential in living a life that pleases God. Christians demonstrate integrity in their thoughts and behaviors, often going beyond merely obeying laws and standards of conduct. Integrity is an intrinsic quality of a believer’s character that manifests itself in especially challenging contexts.
Biblical teachings state that integrity is God’s highest priority. The Old Testament calls for a high standard: “The integrity of the upright shall guide them” (Prov. 11:3). The New Testament clarifies this concept of integrity with a focus on qualities such as honesty, humility, and diligence. Romans 12:9-11, for example, calls for true Christian behavior, stating that those who follow Jesus must “abhor that which is evil; cleave to that which is good. Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honor preferring one another.”
In the modern world, where there are multiple temptations to be dishonest, taking a stand on behalf of honesty and integrity can be difficult. Many people lack the moral courage that would allow them to resist those temptations. However, the Bible states that the rewards of following God’s teachings on integrity are both immediate and eternal. Daniel 6:22-23 states, “[T]he God in whose hand thy breath is, and whose are all thy ways, hast thou not glorified… And Daniel was delivered out of the den of lions.”
Upon closer study of the Bible’s teachings on integrity, one can see that it is not simply about following rules, but about living a life of Christ-like truth and justice. A person of integrity follows God’s law not just because it is convenient or because that’s what the law says, but because it is the right thing to do. As the apostle Paul states in Ephesians 4:25, speaking the truth is “[e]ven in love.”
In contemporary society, integrity is often viewed as an outdated virtue. In an age where winning is more important than playing by the rules, it may seem as though honesty, good character, and courage are unpopular values. Yet, the Bible’s teachings on integrity remain relevant and are essential for every Christian.
The Importance of Integrity in Leadership
Christian leaders are called to be people of integrity. Deuteronomy 17:18-19 states that God wants leaders to be “a man of truth” who seeks “good understanding” and “knowledge.” It is not enough for a Christian leader to merely obey the rules, they must also seek understanding and actively pursue knowledge. Leaders who demonstrate integrity do more than just comply with the law, they use wisdom and discretion to discern right action in difficult situations.
Integrity is especially important in leadership because it forms the basis of trust. When someone leads with integrity, their followers know they can trust them to lead in a responsible and ethical manner. Moreover, when an organization is run with integrity, its members can focus on winning and achieving common goals, instead of worrying about whether the leader is acting ethically. This helps to create a respectful workplace where everyone can work together in a collaborative manner.
The importance of integrity in leadership can be seen in the example of King David. In 1 Chronicles 9:22-32, David is praised for his commitment to God’s laws and for seeking out wisdom from wise counselors: “Such as were expressed in understanding, even all the scribes of the king, who taught the people… Thus David reigned over all Israel; and David executed judgment and justice to all his people (1 Chron. 9:22-29).”
Integrity and trust are essential for Christian leadership. Without them, leaders cannot effectively influence their followers. Christian leaders must demonstrate integrity in their thoughts and behaviors, showing the people they lead that they can be trusted to act in a responsible and ethical manner. This is the most effective way of ensuring that their followers will be inspired to strive for greatness in their own lives.
Adopting and Practicing Integrit
Integrity is often described as a character trait that is either present or absent — it is either part of someone’s nature, or it is not. But the Bible teaches that an individual’s actions should be in harmony with the Spirit, which means a believer can make the conscious decision to pursue integrity. Galatians 5:22-25 outlines the fruit of the Spirit, qualities such as love, joy, and peace, and states that those who abide in Christ should look to the Spirit for guidance: “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.”
Adopting and practicing integrity requires an individual to reflect upon their life and habits. It can be challenging to break patterns and resist temptations, particularly in modern society where winning is the most valued outcome. While it may be tempting to take shortcuts or engage in other unethical behaviors, the Bible teaches that true success only comes from following God’s law and being honest, truthful, and just. “[B]ut the Lord is righteous: He hath cut asunder the cords of the wicked. Let them all be confounded and turned back that are against Zion” (Psalm 125:4-5).
Showing Courage and Courageous Integrity
The Bible calls on believers to demonstrate courage in their pursuit of righteousness, even when met with opposition or when it is difficult to do what is right. In Deuteronomy 31:6, God promises to be with those who possess true courage: “Be strong and of a good courage, fear not, nor be afraid of them: for the Lord thy God, he it is that doth go with thee; he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee.”
Having the courage to stand up for what is right is an important part of how a believer can demonstrate integrity. A person of courage is able to remain true to their beliefs and values, even when faced with challenges and temptations. Doing the right thing often requires a person to sacrifice their own comfort or convenience in order to serve a greater cause. This is why Jesus challenges his followers to go beyond merely obeying laws and commands, and to exhibit courage in their pursuit of righteousness.
The Bible also encourages believers to “speak the truth in love” (Eph. 4:15). A person of integrity is honest and truthful, but they are also compassionate and considerate. In other words, a person of integrity does not simply speak the truth; they speak the truth in a manner that is both respectful and beneficial to all parties. This requires a person to think critically before speaking in order to ensure that their words are both honest and loving.
The Power of Integrity
The Bible teaches that integrity has the power to transform lives and communities. Proverbs 11:3 states, “The integrity of the upright shall guide them, but the perverseness of transgressors shall destroy them.” True integrity leads a person to follow God’s law and to live justly; it is a force for good in the world. Those who embrace and exhibit integrity in their lives bring about positive change in the lives of those around them.
Integrity is a quality of character for which the Bible commends believers. Through the example of Jesus and the teachings of the Bible, believers are encouraged to live a life of true righteousness, marked by honesty and courage. Those who embrace a life of integrity are taking part in a larger movement of God’s grace, one that shines forth a light of hope and love in an otherwise dark world.
The Rewards of Integrity
The Bible states that those who pursue integrity will be rewarded. Proverbs 11:18 reads, “The righteous man shall be recompensed in the earth: much more the wicked and the sinner.” The Bible states that those who follow God’s law and who live with integrity will be blessed both in this life and in the life to come. Those who pursue righteousness can expect to be blessed with greater success, joy, and deep relationships with fellow believers.
The rewards of integrity may take time to manifest themselves, but God will ultimately be faithful to those who are faithful to him. 1 Peter 5:7 advises believers to “[c]ast all your anxiety on [God], because he cares for you.” Ultimately, the Bible promises that “[t]he Lord will give strength to his people; the Lord will bless his people with peace” (Ps. 29:11).
The Sacrifice of Integrity
The Bible states that living with integrity may require a person to sacrifice their own comfort and convenience. This is especially evident in the life of Jesus, who suffered greatly as he demonstrated true righteousness throughout his ministry and journey to the cross. Those who follow Jesus’ example are no longer servants to their own earthly desires, but instead seek to be obedient to God’s will.
The Bible teaches that those who follow God’s law and live with integrity will often have to endure trials and tribulations. Nehemiah 4:14 states, “And I looked, and rose up, and said unto the nobles, and to the rulers, and to the rest of the people, Be not ye afraid of them: remember the Lord which is great and terrible, and fight for your brethren.” Those who demonstrate integrity, even in the face of opposition and danger, will be rewarded for their faithfulness.
Being An Example of Integrity
The Bible calls believers to set an example of integrity for those around them. This means living with honesty and truthfulness, regardless of the situation. Jesus is the perfect example of one who demonstrated integrity even when it was difficult to do so. His example has been a source of courage and inspiration to generations of believers who are striving to live with integrity.
The Bible calls on believers to be examples of integrity not only to those who already know Christ, but also to “the world” (John 17:15-17). Believers are called to set an example of true righteousness, one that is both compelling and convicting. The ultimate aim is that others would be inspired to seek out a life of integrity, and to turn away from a life of sin and disobedience.
The Bible’s Teachings on Integrity in Practice
The Bible’s teachings on integrity are essential knowledge for every believer. Pursuing and practicing integrity is an ongoing process that requires commitment and dedication, but the rewards are both immediate and eternal. By embracing integrity in their thoughts and behaviors, believers can be a force for good in the world. As believers demonstrate courage in the face of opposition and strive for truth and justice, they will set an example of integrity and inspire those around them.
Integrity requires believers to maintain a humble
