The Man of Integrity
“Integrity is the integration of one’s life around his core values” (William D. Lawrence).
Billy Graham said: “Integrity means a person is the same on the inside as he or she claims to be on the outside.”
“Integrity means that if our private life was suddenly exposed, we’d have no reason to be ashamed or embarrassed. Integrity means our outward life is consistent with our inner convictions.”
In Psalm 15:2, the word Integrity is used. It means whole, solid, sound, a consistent commitment to a set of values and convictions. The idea of whole means it is incorporated every day in every area of one’s life. There is not a separate “God” or “Do the right thing” compartment.
When you look at Psalm 15:1, this verse refers to fellowship with God. Tent and Holy Hill are symbols of the presence of God. Psalm 15 describes the kind of person who lives in constant fellowship with God. This is a real Christian at work, practical Christianity at work every single day. You don’t do these things to go to heaven you do these things because you are going to heaven.
Here are the 8 Characteristics of a Man of Integrity:
I - DOES WHAT IS RIGHT
Psalm 15:2 “Works righteousness.”
The person of integrity is committed to doing the right thing not because someone is watching or not because he is afraid, he will get caught if not. It is a habit, a way of life. Why does he do it? Because it is simply the right thing to do. Integrity means doing the right thing on purpose, by intention.
II - SAYS WHAT IS TRUE
Psalm 15:2 “And speaks truth in his heart.”
The man of integrity intentionally tells the truth because he lives in truth. This speaks of sincerity. There is no deception, no ulterior motives, just a radical commitment to the truth. It is being honest. The idea is also that when truth is shared, it is shared in love and sincerity.
III - SAYS TO ONES FACE WHAT MANY WOULD ONLY SAY BEHIND ONE’S BACK
Psalm 15:3 “He does not slander with his tongue…”
This speaks of gossip, defaming another person’s character. It is saying something behind one’s back you wouldn’t say to his face.
So, the Psalmist is saying a person of integrity asks first: Is it true? Is it confidential? Is it helpful? Integrity means saying to one’s face…what others would only say behind his back.
IV - REFUSES TO WRONG PEOPLE
Psalm 15:3 “nor does evil to his neighbor…”
It means you don’t consciously bring difficulty upon those who do the right thing. The word “Evil” means “breaking up of all that is good or desirable.”
Evil also refers to moral depravity. Integrity means refusing to yield to temptation or encouraging it. The man of integrity refuses to do that which is wrong to people who are right.
V - EXPRESSES DISAPPROVAL OF THOSE WHOM GOD DISAPPROVES
Psalm 15:4 “in whose eyes a reprobate is despised.”
A reprobate is someone who is totally disinterested and belligerent toward the things of God. They scorn anything spiritual. The person of integrity doesn’t respect those of whom God disapproves, those who would deny Him and deny the clear teachings of His Word, the Bible.
VI - STANDS UP FOR THOSE WHO ARE RIGHT
Psalm 15:4 “He swears to his own hurt and does not change.”
That means he applauds the actions of those who do the right thing. You value that person’s convictions. When someone criticizes the one doing what is right, the man of integrity speaks up for them. He honors those who honor God.
This person is one who is sought out for his wisdom. It means hanging around people who love God.
VII - DOES WHAT HE SAYS, EVEN IF IT COSTS
Psalm 15:4 “He swears to his own hurt and does not change.”
The person of integrity doesn’t renege on his word. It is making good on your word, being faithful to your word even if it turns out to be to your disadvantage.
His word is his bond. The man of integrity makes it his aim to do what he says he will do even when it hurts, even when it is inconvenient.
VIII - TREATS PEOPLE FAIRLY
Psalm 15:5 “Nor does he take a bribe against the innocent.”
The man of integrity refuses to take a bribe, to corrupt his conduct by doing something unethical. He treats everyone fairly and being impartial. Simply put, he does the right thing toward everyone regardless of who they are.
God give us men. The time demands:
Strong minds, great hearts,
True faith and willing hands;
Men whom the lust of office does not kill;
Men whom the spoils of office cannot buy;
Men who possess opinions and a will;
Men who have honor; men who will not lie;
Men who can stand before a demagogue
And withstand numerous flatteries without winking;
Tall men, sun crowned men, who live above the fog
In public duty and in private thinking (John G. Holland).
Today, commit to being a man of integrity!
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