I recently attended a meeting of leaders that could have become contentious and disastrous. It could have resulted in more fireworks than Chinese New Year! Thankfully, however, difficult issues were addressed with honesty and transparency. The big “I”—integrity—led individuals to speak words of truth, love, and forgiveness.
Micah would have been pleased.
Possessing a name that means “who is like God,” the prophet longed for integrity—moral principles and uprightness—to return to God’s people, courts, and country (Micah 7:1-3,11). As he looked around and saw only dishonesty and festering moral decay, he cried out, “I look to the LORD for help . . . [to] be my light” (Micah 7:7-8).
Micah knew God’s chosen “people . . . special possession” (Micah 7:14) should reflect His righteousness, holiness, and integrity (Proverbs 11:20). God accepts nothing less, which was something Peter addressed: “You must live as God’s obedient children. Don’t slip back into your old ways of living to satisfy your own desires. . . . Be holy in everything you do, just as God who chose you is holy” (1 Peter 1:14-15).
Integrity doesn’t come easy. For the people of Jerusalem and Samaria, it meant hearing Micah declare God’s judgment on them. They learned that they would be punished—pointing them to cleansing, “light,” and “righteousness” (Micah 7:9). God’s love, compassion, forgiveness, and faithfulness would ultimately prevail (Micah 7:18-20).
If the big “I” isn’t being reflected in your words, character, and decisions, come to God in repentance today. Receive His cleansing. Only then will you be able to show the honesty, moral uprightness, and integrity of a true “special possession of God” (Micah 7:14).
NLT 365-day reading plan passage for today: Acts 13:1-12
More:
Read Proverbs 2:7 and consider what God provides for those who walk in integrity.
Next:
How have you at times struggled with integrity? What do you need to do to walk in it with man and God today?
Gary Shultz on October 28, 2014 at 6:44 am
I really like the ODJ bloggers. I try to support the cause with a comment now and then; like it or not. If we are talking about folks of integrity, caring, and kindness, you are certainly positioned in that category. With great care you answer, encourage, and care for readers and your fellow bloggers. The world needs to see people of integrity, thanks for showing us one.
Tom Felten on October 28, 2014 at 10:02 am
Thanks so much, Gary. It’s a joy to be a part of an online community that is seeking Jesus and striving to grow in faith. Thanks so much for your insightful, encouraging comments. Keep them coming!
Winn Collier on November 1, 2014 at 8:06 pm
For a while now, integrity has been moving up on my list of favorite words.