Print this article.

A Commitment to Integrity

There is a basic foundational element missing in many of today’s leaders.  Without it, a leader is bound to experience setbacks, embarrassment, and even failure. What is that element? Integrity! We live in a time when it is common to hear of some moral failing or “indiscretion” of a prominent figure in society. Because of this we find ourselves battling skepticism and cynicism when notable persons in politics, religion, and sports place themselves in the spotlight.  It is as if we are waiting for the other shoe to drop. We ask, “What are they hiding?” When our leaders tell us that “they really care about us”, the little voice inside our mind says, “Yeah right, they only have their best interest at heart.”

We are not the first generation to experience this. It was certainly the case during Bible times. The Old Testament prophet, Amos, identified leaders of his day who “trampled on the poor,” exacted heavy taxes on those who could least afford it, “afflicted the righteous”, “took bribes,” and “afflicted the needy in the gate” (Amos 4.11-12). These political and religious leaders took every advantage of the power and trappings of their position. The record says they “built houses of hewn stone,” and “planted pleasant vineyards.”  They lived in luxury by taking advantage of those who were less fortunate.  Sound familiar? There has never been a time when corruption and dishonesty were not present in some form in the leadership of society.
God’s people have been called to live in integrity in the midst of a corrupt society. A great example is seen in Daniel. When Daniel’s enemies were looking for ways to discredit and remove him from his leadership position, they ran into a significant problem. They “sought to find a ground for complaint against Daniel with regard to the kingdom, but they could find no ground for complaint or any fault, because he was faithful, and no error or fault was found in him,” Daniel 6.4. Wow! By this time, Daniel had overseen the kingdom of Babylon for many years, and yet he was found blameless. His commitment to personal purity and integrity speaks volumes. When it comes to faithful living by God’s standard, Daniel stands as a great example to follow.

Daniel’s life and character testifies to our ability to live in integrity at the highest level of society. We need more godly men and women in leadership positions. We need them running businesses, community organizations, and in all levels of government. In each one of these areas, there will be unique temptations to compromise. We must always be true to the principle of integrity. Cutting corners only places one farther behind…not farther ahead.

Do you live the kind of life that testifies to personal integrity and righteousness? Make a commitment today to live by the Holy Spirit’s expectations in 1 Peter 2.12: “Keep your conduct among the Gentiles honorable, so that when they speak against you as evildoers, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day of visitation.”