“Let me be weighed in an even balance, that God may know mine integrity.” Job 31:6
Integrity is not a product of environment or natural ability. Imagine an orphan boy who struggled academically. He was socially awkward and uncoordinated. When he spoke it was in a high-pitched voice. Yet he became a man renowned for his integrity. It is reported that once in the middle of the night he went to a student that he had offended to ask for forgiveness. He is known as Stonewall Jackson.
What would you expect of a young man whose mother became an adulteress and his father died insane? He was small for his age, sickly. All of his life he was accident-prone and spoke with a speech impediment. Yet his words have become famous, “Never give in, never give in, never, never, never, never – in nothing, great or small, large or petty – never give in except to convictions of honor and good sense.” His name is Winston Churchill.
Integrity does not depend on circumstance or the actions of others. It is a choice. Men of integrity are not always famous but they are well-known to God.
David is known for many things. He was the Shepherd King of Israel, the man after God’s own heart. It is interesting to note how the Lord spoke of him to his son. In 1 Kings 9:4 we read, “And if thou wilt walk before me, as David thy father walked, in integrity of heart, and in uprightness, to do according to all that I have commanded thee, and wilt keep my statutes and my judgments:”
Integrity is a heart matter. It is a choice. Men of integrity are not made by accident. They choose to do right on purpose. In our world integrity is uncommon. Lying, stealing, broken promises, and unfaithfulness have become the order of the day. Only men of integrity can please God and be an example to others.
A very wise salesman was once asked why he did not take short cuts in his business dealings. Surely no one will ever know. His response was full of integrity: “I will know.” Yes, and more importantly, God knows.
