One of the most important character traits to develop is integrity. I love the definition that says "integrity is doing what you say you will do, even if the circumstances change or become worse". Doing the right thing is a self-discipline that develops the strength needed to build integrity into your character. Our reputations are fragile and easily damaged by simple mistakes that we often look at in hindsight with regret.
Do the right thing because it’s the right thing to do. Our word is truly the only thing we have. A person who doesn’t keep their word is not reliable or trustworthy. Even if the circumstances change, we must keep or word as much as possible. The same with our Heavenly Father. I was at a time in my life where I made a vow to God, and when it came time to keep my part of the agreement I knew that I must. No matter what. See, I used to smoke. It was a crutch that got me through a season of life until I could learn to lean on God. Until I trusted God to sustain me. I vowed to quit smoking if the Lord would give me a child of my own. Only weeks after my request and vow I found myself pregnant. God gave me the desire of my heart, and now I was bound by my word to him.
Take a moment today and let's examine our character. Can we find an example of where we didn’t keep our word? If we do, we must first set things right. Let’s go back and ask God to give us wisdom on how to fix this relationship. We want to make sure that when we touch a life that the touch is never harmful.
The integrity of the upright shall guide them: but the perverseness of transgressors shall destroy them. - Proverbs 11:3
Dear Lord, We know walking this life is not for the faint at heart. Help us to lean on you for our strength and wisdom. Teach us how to let you shine through us so that others see you.
