Challenges of Integrity -- part 1

As Mothers of Nations we represent Jesus Christ and the kingdom of God everywhere we go and in everything we say. Most certainly we should consider and value the character quality of integrity in our daily lifestyle as well as in ministry. Over the next four weeks, let’s dig into this topic of “integrity” and consider both the challenges and blessings, especially as it relates to the world we live in today.

What is integrity? The dictionary indicates three facets of integrity. First, it is the quality or state of being complete, unbroken, whole, and entire. Secondly, it is the quality or state of being unimpaired, in perfect condition and soundness. The final definition offered is the quality or state of being of sound moral principle, uprightness, honesty and sincerity. It is this third definition that we will focus on these next several weeks.

How is this character quality of integrity developed? Character is formed by both the world and by the Word. The Word shows us what Godly character is like, as well as examples of ungodly character. While the world’s standards endeavor to shape us, we as Mothers of Nations are to be WORD people, not WORLD people!

Testings, pressures, circumstances, decisions, and crossroads all shape our character – and in particular, our integrity. These experiences both reveal our integrity AND shape our integrity, depending on our actions and responses in each situation.

Integrity comes not by the laying on of hands, but by going through the school of character building. We read in Romans 12: 1-2, “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world:  but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.”

It is important to recognize that integrity is continually being developed and tested throughout our life – an on-going refinement! This “refinement” takes place in many different ways.

• At all ages – toddler, teen, adult
• At all levels of spiritual maturity – new believer to senior saint
• In all levels of Christian leadership – usher, worship team, pulpit ministers
• In all levels of decision making – business transactions, speed limits, change at the grocery store, taking tests, tax preparations, etc.
• Both secretly in our heart and publicly before others. Are we challenged to cover mistakes with lies or doing right when no one else is present?

Next week we will discuss why integrity of character is important. As you walk through this coming week, take notice of how many times “integrity” pops up in the world around you and of course, in your own life decisions and actions!

Rev. Nola Beintema