Integrity in Christian Service

Chuckle: In the South, 'y'all' is singular....'all y'all" is plural. . . .!

Quote: "The integrity of men (and women) is to be measured by their conduct, not by their professions." --Junius

"Let integrity and uprightness protect me: because my hope is in you" (Psalm 25:21 NIV). "I know my God that you test the heart and are pleased with integrity" (I Chronicles 29:17 NIV).

The commitment of Christians is one of Satan's favorite targets. He doesn't care if we make commitments to God as long as he can keep us from following through on those commitments. If you commit to a leadership position in your church, it is imperative that you fulfill the designated responsibilities of that position. You see, when you agree to take a position of responsibility, you are making that commitment to God as well as to the other believers. Integrity before God will motivate you to give it your all -- for His glory.

If you are a teacher, "In everything set them (learners) an example by doing what is good. In your teaching show integrity, seriousness, and soundness of speech. . . ." (Titus 2:7 NIV). Paul urged Titus to be a good example to those around him so that they might see his good character and imitate him. If you desire someone to act a certain way, it's important that you live that way yourself. Honoring God with a life of integrity will encourage your fellow believers and strengthen the Body of Christ, the church.

The effectiveness of our witness is a matter of Christian integrity. How are we viewed within our families? Do we practice integrity which can be learned by our children? Do non-Christians of our communities see us as people of integrity? Does our level of integrity lend credibility to our Christian witness? Knowing that God is pleased with us removes guilt and replaces it with peace and tranquility, and there is no greater joy than knowing our lives are pleasing to our Lord. Jesus has promised us His peace far beyond what the world can provide (John 14:27).

Within a congregation, love and integrity go hand-in-hand. When we genuinely care for each other, we will never do anything to hurt or disappoint one another. But, even more important than our fellowship with one another is our fellowship with the Father. A lack of personal integrity can ruin that fellowship as well. When we violate any part of God's standard for our character, it is sin and will disrupt our fellowship with Him -- until we repent, confess our sins, and are forgiven. Sins of the heart are in plain view to God, not just the outward ones manifested in our speech or actions. "Anyone, then who knows the good he ought to do and doesn't do it, sins" (James 4:17 NIV).

It is God's desire that while Christians must be in the world, they must be different from the world. Always being a person of integrity is a lofty goal for each of us, but one God would have us strive to attain, as He gives us strength.

Love, Jerry & Dotse