Choosing Integrity (Even When It’s Tough)

“I know You are pleased with me, for my enemy does not triumph over me. Because of my integrity, You uphold me and set me in Your presence forever” (Psalms 41:11-12).

Living a life of integrity can be difficult in a society that lives apart from God’s ways, full of corruption. As believers, to live with integrity is to follow in the footsteps of Christ. “Even before he made the world, God loved us and chose us in Christ to be holy and without fault in his eyes” (Ephesians 1:4). In Christ, God equips us with the ability to resist temptation, and to live authentic, truthful lives.

An incredible illustration of gritty determination and solid faith in God can be found in the biblical account of Job. He lost all his children, his livelihood, and his fortune in one, 24- hour day! Then, his health was assaulted. Yet, he persevered, despite feeling forgotten and far from God—tempted to give up! He was counseled by misguided friends to view his turmoil as a justifiable reason to curse and forsake God, but instead, he chose to take the high road. “But He knows where I am going. And when He tests me, I will come out as pure as gold” (Job 23:10). God saw Job’s immovable character and commitment to Him. Indeed, God restored Job’s health, gave him more children, provided him twice as much property, and blessed Job with a very long life!

God empowers us to rise above this world’s persuasions and temptations, taking shelter in His arms. Jesus said, “I am not alone, because the Father is with Me. I have told you all this so that you may have peace in Me. Here on earth, you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world” (John 16:32-33). Our obstacles are not a problem for God! We will be victorious if we let Him lead!

Guiding Points:

Call to Action: How can we as followers of Christ increase our faith in times of testing? Read these scriptures and ask the Lord how you can to apply them to your life. God is always with you!

“Pray for us. We are sure that we have a clear conscience and desire to live honorably in every way” (Hebrews 12:18).

“Do unto others as you would have them do unto you” (Luke 6:31).

“Look straight ahead and fix your eyes on what lies before you. Mark out a straight path for your feet; stay on the safe path. Don’t get sidetracked; keep your feet from following evil” (Proverbs 4:25-27).

“Whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things” (Philippians 4:8).

“But for those who are righteous, the way is not steep and rough. You are a God who does what is right, and You smooth out the path ahead of them” (Isaiah 26:7).

Prayer: Father God, Your name is high and lifted up today! Thank You for being with us in our daily decision-making. Help us to be people of integrity, guided by Your Word in all our thoughts and actions. Let us be more like Jesus! Give us discernment to recognize temptation and plans of the enemy that try to throw us off our path. Set our feet on solid ground and keep us in alignment with Your will. We give You all the honor, glory, and praise! In Your name we pray, Amen. Final Thought: When we are tested and choose the road of integrity, God backs us up!