Integrity, And How Not To Lose It

I seem to hear a lot of people talking about integrity at the moment. In our lives, in our church, and particularly at the present time in the political arena. Not surprising, I suppose, that it's at the top of my mind today.

The Hebrew word in the Old Testament which is translated as integrity means “the condition of being without blemish, completeness, perfection, sincerity, soundness, uprightness, wholeness.”

I want a life that features all of these things. However, there is little point of me trying to be what I am not... I know I am imperfect but I try very hard to be true to my beliefs. "Fake it until you make it" just isn't for me. "I will do my best" is more like it.

However, as a society we are frequently confronted by people who claim to be perfect but are quickly found to be seriously flawed. What is worse, this is usually brought to my attention by the popular press who love to find fault in those in leadership or in the public eye. They dig and dig until they find something, and leap upon it to sell papers or lead the next news bulletin. 

That's a terrific reason not to be famous, and not to run for public office. I figure I can do much more good as an unknown that I could ever do as a 'name'...

Here's a few pointers I picked up from the 'net today, while thinking about blogging about this topic...

I should strive to be the same person in front of a crowd as you are behind the scenes. That's a tough one for me as I personally hate crowds... However, I take the good advice. I should be the same in public as I am in private. However,  if you want to see me at my most comfortable, look behind the scenes. I'll be there.

I should take care not to conform. Yep. See Romans 12:2, “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.”

I should take frequent opportunity to build my character. Indeed, and this takes time. Endurance builds character (Romans 5:3). And remember, don't seek to compromise your deeply-held values. Anything that is truly a personal value to you should not be compromised just because it's convenient. Which brings us on to the next point..

I should live with honesty and keep your promises. I'd go a step further than that and say 'don't lie to yourself'. Because it's common for altruistic people to go out of your way for others and to neglect themselves. By all means strive to keep your promises, however don't make yourself ill in the process... you are of little use to others if you make yourself ill!

Just my thoughts today.