Living with Integrity: Making Honest Choices Guided by Scripture.

Can you imagine living a life so rooted in integrity that it not only transforms your personal peace but also impacts generations to come? In today's episode, we promise to unravel the profound biblical principles that guide us toward such a life. Beginning with a prayer for divine guidance, we redefine integrity beyond mere honesty to a consistent alignment with God's Word. Through the inspiring stories of Job and Daniel, we explore how their unwavering integrity under severe trials provides us with powerful, actionable examples. We highlight the treasures found in Proverbs 10:9 and Proverbs 20:7, which reveal the immense security and generational blessings that accompany a life of integrity. Cultivating this virtue starts with a deep, authentic relationship with Christ, reinforced by truthfulness and our actions' impact on the body of Christ, as emphasized by Philippians 4:8, James 1:22, and Luke 16:10.

As we continue, the episode dives into the guidance offered by the Holy Spirit and the wisdom in God's Word. Reflecting on Jesus' promise in John 16:13 and the illuminating power of Psalm 119:105, we see how these truths light our path. Joseph's exemplary actions in Genesis 39:7-10 show us integrity in action through his resistance to temptation. We discuss the essential practices of confession and repentance, using 1 John 1:9 and the story of Zacchaeus in Luke 19:8-9. Additionally, we consider how living with integrity bolsters our witness for Christ, steering us away from deceit and bringing peace and joy as outlined in 1 Peter 2:12 and Proverbs 11:3. Finally, we explore practical applications in our personal relationships and work life, stressing the importance of honesty, transparency, and speaking the truth in love, as guided by Ephesians 4:15 and Colossians 3:23. Join us for an enriching conversation that promises to inspire and equip you to live with unwavering integrity.

Chapters

• 0:00 Living With Integrity
• 7:45 Living With Integrity

Transcript

Speaker 1: 0:32

Welcome. I'm your host, javier, and the topic for today's episode is living with integrity making honest choices guided by scripture. Integrity is one of those words that gets tossed around a lot, but what does it really mean to live with integrity? More importantly, what does it mean to live with integrity as a follower of Christ? Before we get started, let's open with a word of prayer. Heavenly Father, we come before you today with open hearts and minds, asking for your guidance as we explore what it means to live with integrity. Help us to understand how we can align our lives with your word and make honest choices that honor you. We ask this in the mighty name of Jesus Christ, amen.

Speaker 1: 1:10

Integrity is a word that's often used, but sometimes not fully understood. According to the dictionary, integrity is the quality of being honest and having strong moral principles, but for those of us who follow Christ, integrity goes beyond just being a good person or having a strong moral compass. It means living in a way that is consistent with the truths found in scripture, even when no one is watching. It's about being the same person in private as you are in public. In the Bible, we see integrity as a consistent theme. One of the most well-known verses about integrity is found in the book of Proverbs, chapter 10, verse 9, which says whoever walks in integrity walks securely, but he who makes his ways crooked will be found out. This verse tells us that living a life of integrity provides security. When we are honest and live according to God's word, we don't have to worry about being exposed or caught in a lie. Our lives are an open book and we can walk securely, knowing that we are living in a way that pleases God.

Speaker 1: 2:08

The Bible is filled with examples of men and women who live lives of integrity. One of the most striking examples is found in the life of Job. In Job, chapter 2, verse 3, the Lord says to Satan have you considered my servant Job, that there is none like him on the earth, a blameless and upright man who fears God and turns away from evil? He still holds fast his integrity, although you incited me against him to destroy him without reason. Despite the immense suffering and loss that Job endured, he refused to compromise his integrity. He remained faithful to God, even when he didn't understand why he was going through such trials.

Speaker 1: 2:44

Another powerful example of integrity in the Bible is Daniel. In the book of Daniel, we see a young man who was taken captive from his homeland and brought to Babylon. Despite being in a foreign land, daniel refused to compromise his beliefs or his integrity. In Daniel, chapter 6, verses 4 through 5, we read Then the high officials and the satraps sought to find a ground for complaint against Daniel with regard to the kingdom, but they could find no ground for complaint or any fault, because he was faithful and no error or fault was found in him. Then these men said we shall not find any ground for complaint against this Daniel unless we find it in connection with the law of his God. Daniel's integrity was so impeccable that even his enemies couldn't find anything to accuse him of except his faithfulness to God.

Speaker 1: 3:30

Living with integrity means being honest in all our dealings, truthful in our words and faithful in our actions. This might seem straightforward, but in today's. And faithful in our actions. This might seem straightforward, but in today's world, where shortcuts and compromises are often rewarded. Staying true to God's standards can be challenging, but this is where our faith is truly tested.

Speaker 1: 3:48

In the book of Proverbs, chapter 20, verse 7, it says the righteous who walks in his integrity, blessed are his children after him. This verse highlights not only the personal benefits of living a life of integrity, but also the generational impact it can have. When we live with integrity, we set an example for our children and for those who come after us. We leave a legacy of righteousness that can inspire and guide future generations. But how do we cultivate such integrity? It begins with a deep and abiding relationship with Christ. In the book of John, chapter 15, verse 5, jesus says I am the vine, you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me, you can do nothing. Without Christ, we cannot hope to live a life of true integrity. It's only through His strength, his guidance and His grace that we can walk in righteousness.

Speaker 1: 4:39

A key aspect of integrity is being truthful in all situations, even when it's difficult. In the book of Ephesians, chapter 4, verse 25, it says Therefore, having put away falsehood, let each one of you speak the truth with his neighbor, for we are members one of another. As members of the body of Christ, our words and actions affect not just ourselves but the entire community of believers. When we lie, cheat or deceive, we damage the trust that is essential to our unity in Christ. The Apostle Paul in his letter to the Philippians, gives us a powerful instruction in chapter 4, verse 8. Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. This verse is a call to fill our minds with things that align with God's truth. When our thoughts are centered on what is true and honorable, our actions will naturally follow suit.

Speaker 1: 5:37

Integrity also involves consistency in our actions and decisions. In the book of James, chapter 1, verse 22, it says but be doers of the word and not hearers only deceiving yourselves. It's not enough to just know what is right. We must also do what is right. This is where many people struggle. It's easy to say the right things or to agree with biblical principles, but it's another thing entirely to live them out in our daily lives. But this is exactly what we are called to do as followers of Christ.

Speaker 1: 6:06

Living with integrity means being faithful in the little things. In the book of Luke, chapter 16, verse 10, jesus says One who is faithful in a very little is also faithful in much, and one who is dishonest in a very little is also dishonest in much. The choices we make in the small everyday moments of life reveal our true character. If we are faithful and honest in the little things, we will be prepared to handle greater responsibilities with integrity. Of the challenges of living with integrity is that it often requires us to go against the flow of the world around us. In a culture that often values success and achievement over honesty and integrity, it can be tempting to cut corners or compromise our values in order to get ahead. But as followers of Christ, we are called to a higher standard. In the book of Romans, chapter 12, verse 2, it says Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect. We are called to live in a way that is distinct from the world, to be lights in the darkness and to reflect the character of Christ in all that we do.

Speaker 1: 7:13

Integrity is also about being true to who God has called us to be, even when it's difficult or costly. In the book of Galatians, chapter 1, verse 10, paul writes For am I now seeking the approval of man or of God, or am I trying to please man. If I were still trying to please man, I would not be a servant of Christ. Please man. If I were still trying to please man, I would not be a servant of Christ. Our ultimate goal should not be to please others or to gain their approval, but to live in a way that is pleasing to God. This means being willing to stand up for what is right, even when it's unpopular or comes with a cost.

Speaker 1: 7:45

As we seek to live with integrity, it's important to remember that we are not alone in this journey. God has given us His Holy Spirit to guide us, to convict us when we stray, and to empower us to live lives that honor Him. In the book of John, chapter 16, verse 13, jesus says when the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth, for he will not speak on His own authority, but whatever he hears, he will speak and he will declare to you the things that are to come. The Holy Spirit is our helper and guide, leading us into all truth and helping us to live with integrity. Another powerful tool God has given us to help us live with integrity is His Word. The Bible is full of wisdom and guidance for how we should live, and it serves as a constant reminder of the standards God has set for us. In the book of Psalm, chapter 119, verse 105, we read your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path. When we immerse ourselves in Scripture, we are better equipped to make choices that align with God's will and to live lives of integrity.

Speaker 1: 8:45

One example is the life of Joseph in the Old Testament. Joseph was a man of integrity who faced many challenges and temptations, yet he remained faithful to God throughout his life. In the book of Genesis, chapter 39, verses 7 through 10, we see one such example. And after a time, his master's wife cast her eyes on Joseph and said lie with me. But he refused and said to his master's wife behold, because on Joseph. And said Lie with me. But he refused and said to his master's wife Behold, because of me. My master has no concern about anything in the house and he has put everything that he has in my charge. He is not greater in this house than I am, nor has he kept back anything from me except you, because you are his wife. How, then, can I do this great wickedness and sin against God? And as she spoke to Joseph day to temptation, even when it would have been easy and perhaps even expected, is a powerful example of integrity in action. He chose to honor God and remain faithful even when no one else was watching.

Speaker 1: 9:46

Living with integrity also means being willing to admit when we've made a mistake and to seek forgiveness. None of us are perfect and we all fall short of God's standards at times, but when we do, it's important that we take responsibility for our actions, confess our sins and seek to make things right. In the book of 1 John, chapter 1, verse 9, we read if we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. Confession and repentance are key components of living a life of integrity. When we are honest with ourselves, with others and with God about our shortcomings, we open the door to healing and restoration.

Speaker 1: 10:24

In addition to confession, living with integrity involves making amends when necessary. This might mean apologizing to someone we've wronged, making restitution for something we've taken or simply changing our behavior to align more closely with God's Word. In the book of Luke, chapter 19, verses 8 and 9, we see the story of Zacchaeus, a tax collector who encountered Jesus and had his life transformed. It says and Zacchaeus stood and said to the Lord Behold, lord, the half of my goods I give to the poor, and if I have defrauded anyone of anything, I restore it fourfold. And Jesus said to him Today, salvation has come to this house, since he also is a son of Abraham. Zacchaeus' willingness to make restitution for his past wrongs was a sign of his newfound integrity and commitment to following Jesus.

Speaker 1: 11:10

As we move toward the end of our discussion, let's reflect on the impact that living with integrity can have, not just on our own lives, but on the world around us. When we live with integrity, we become a powerful witness for Christ. Our actions speak louder than our words, and when people see that we live what we preach, they are more likely to listen to what we have to say. In the book of 1 Peter 2, verse 12, it says Keep your conduct among the Gentiles honorable, so that when they speak against you as evildoers, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day of visitation. Our integrity can be a testimony to others, drawing them closer to God and to the truth of the gospel. Living with integrity also brings peace and joy. When we live in alignment with God's word. We experience the peace that comes from knowing we are doing what is right. We don't have to worry about being caught in a lie or being exposed for something we've done in secret. In the book of Proverbs, chapter 11, verse 3, it says the integrity of the upright guides them, but the crookedness of the treacherous destroys them. Integrity is a guide that leads us in the right direction, helping us to avoid the pitfalls and traps that come with dishonesty and deceit.

Speaker 1: 12:19

What does it look like to live with integrity? Integrity in our everyday lives. It's easy to talk about integrity in the abstract, but how does it play out in the decisions we make, in our relationships, in our work and in our communities? Let's explore these areas more closely. In our personal relationships, integrity means being honest and transparent with those we love. It means keeping our promises, being faithful to our commitments and speaking the truth in love. In the book of Ephesians, chapter 4, verse 15, it says rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him, who is the head, into Christ. Speaking the truth in love is not always easy, especially when the truth is difficult or painful to hear. But integrity requires that we be honest, even when it's hard. This doesn't mean being harsh or unkind, but rather being truthful in a way that builds others up and helps them grow.

Speaker 1: 13:10

In our work, integrity means doing our jobs to the best of our ability, being honest in our dealings and treating others with respect. In the book of Colossians, chapter 3, verses 23 and 24, it says Whatever you do, work heartily as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ. This verse reminds us that our work is ultimately for God, not just for our bosses or for a paycheck. When we work with integrity, we honor God and serve as a witness to those around us In our communities.

Speaker 1: 13:43

Integrity means standing up for what is right, even when it's unpopular. It means being a voice for the voiceless, advocating for justice and living in a way that reflects the character of Christ. In the book of Micah, chapter 6, verse 8, it says he has told you, o man, what is good and what does the Lord require of you, but to do justice and to love kindness and to walk humbly with your God. This verse is a powerful reminder that integrity is not just about personal righteousness, but about how we treat others and how we live out our faith in the world. Let's return to the foundation of integrity, our relationship with Christ. Living with integrity is not something we can do on our own. It requires the guidance and strength of the Holy Spirit, the wisdom of God's Word and a deep and abiding relationship with Jesus. In the book of Psalm, chapter 25, verse 21, it says May integrity and uprightness preserve me, for I wait for you. This verse is a prayer that we can all make our own, a prayer that God would help us to live with integrity and uprightness as we wait for His guidance and direction in our lives.

Speaker 1: 14:46

Before we end today's episode, let's close with a word of prayer. Dear Lord, we thank you for the opportunity to gather together today and to learn more about what it means to live with integrity. We ask that you would help us to take these lessons to heart and to apply them in our daily lives. Give us the strength and courage to make honest choices, to be faithful in the small things. We ask all these things in the small things. We ask all these things in the name of Jesus Christ, amen. Thank you for joining us today on the Crossroads Collective Podcast. I hope this discussion has encouraged you to pursue a life of integrity, guided by Scripture. Remember, living with integrity is not always easy, but it is always worth it. Until next time, may the peace of Christ be with you.