Devotionals

Faith Leads to Integrity

by Cheryl Weber
09/20/24
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“I will be careful to live a blameless life  . . . I will lead a life of integrityin my own home” (Psalms 101:2).

Our fallen human nature likes the applause of others, so we put on a “good front.” Yet we think we can get away with secret sin. Behind closed doors, what we watch, what we say, and how we act can be very different. We can fall into this trap even as Christians. I sometimes cringe when I worship the Lord at church, lifting my hands and crying out in praise to him . . . and then drive home, calling the tailgater behind me an “idiot” while I tap the brakes in annoyance.

But God sees into every heart. Nothing is hidden from his sight (Psalms 139:1-4, Hebrews 4:13, 1 Chronicles 28:9). Jesus warned that God is not impressed by outward appearances when there is sin in the mind and heart (Matthew 5:27-28). He upbraided the religious leaders of the day for their hypocrisy of a godly facade yet hiding their lust, pride, greed, and murderous intent (Matthew 23:15, 25-28, Matthew 12:14).

But when we yield our lives and wills to Christ, his Spirit and word transform our hearts and minds (Romans 12:2) making us daily more like Jesus (Romans 8:29). We learn to fear God and hate sin (Proverbs 8:13) and obey God out of love for him (John 14:15) and a deep desire to please him (2 Corinthians 5:9-11). We become faithful in all things, (Luke 16:10) knowing God will reward us for doing what is right, even if no one is watching (Matthew 6: 3-4, 6, Romans 12:9). The result of all this is a life of abundance only Christ can give us (John 10:10).

Paul told the church in Rome to be, “wise in doing right and to stay innocent of any wrong”  Romans 16:19-20) NLT. Today and always, let’s seek God’s help to live in truth and integrity before him in all areas of our lives, from the very bottom of our hearts.

PRAYER: Holy God, give me the power to do what is right today even when no one but you sees me. AMEN.