Integrity of heart: Integrity is the opposite of hypocrisy.
The word integrity comes from the Latin integer meaning whole.
It describes an undivided life, a wholeness that comes from qualities such as honesty and consistency of character.
It means acting according to the values, beliefs and principles we claim to hold.
–Nicky Gumbel
The Invitation: We are constantly tempted to compromise, to live in ways that go against God’s design for us. The big enticements are easy to recognize, but the daily temptations are usually small: holding a grudge, putting someone down, or thinking destructive thoughts. And each time we compromise, we step away from wholeness, from the honesty and consistency of character that come from living an undivided life.
When our love for God is at the forefront of our heart and mind, our choices will flow from that love and temptations will lose their appeal. To live with integrity is to live in freedom–without torment or regret– according to the values, beliefs and principles we claim to hold.
Whoever walks in integrity walks securely,
but whoever takes crooked paths will be found out.
–Proverbs 10:9 (NIV)
Your Response: Lord, I want to walk in integrity at all times. I want to live from a place of wholeness and freedom. Is there any area where I am tempted to live a divided life—where I compromise what I believe?
What would it look like to live in integrity in this place?
Holy Spirit, thank you for empowering me to walk securely in integrity. I choose the straight paths. I choose wholeness and freedom.
Thanks for the reminder to take my thoughts captive (2 Corinthians 10:5) and to think on things that focus on God’s love. This is what can bring me true peace, wholeness and freedom. Bless you for this ministry.
Hi Donna, Thanks for your words of encouragement. Focusing on God’s love is definitely a key in bringing true peace, wholeness and freedom. We all need to remind each other of this reality. Blessings, Kathy B.