From Rubble to RestorationSample

Integrity

Integrity.  Back in the day, it used to be easy to find people with integrity.  People did what they said, told the truth, and had a moral compass.  But our society has changed.  Many people think it is o.k. to tell a lie if it prevents hurting someone’s feelings. Others may not give 100% at work because they see their coworkers getting away with minimum effort.  Or still others may only hold to their faith if people are watching.  When the audience goes away, they do what pleases their fleshly desires.

But God is looking for people with integrity.  In fact, in this passage in Nehemiah, Hananiah is specifically chosen to be the commander of the citadel in Jerusalem because he is a man of integrity.  I love that it says he feared God more than most. Hananiah stood above everyone else and God noticed.  

 We see integrity in some examples here:

·  Not going out to eat alone with someone from the opposite sex out of respect for your spouse.

·  Telling the truth in love, even when it is easier to lie.

·  Seeking God for everything you do, making sure you are in His will.

·  Being a good steward of the money you make.

·  Giving your all at work, even if you may not like your boss or your job.

When we live a life full of integrity, we are exercising the fear of God.  We know we are honoring Him and treating others the way He would want us to treat them. And when people obey God -- when they seek Him and honor Him with their lives, He gives them favor, just like he did Hananiah.  

Questions:

1.  Are you a person of integrity?  Why or why not?

2.  What do you think it means to fear God?  Do you? 

3.  Is there any area of your life that is lacking integrity?  If so, do you feel God is asking you to do something about it?