Integrity!

Integrity!

How blessed and favored by God are those whose way is blameless [those with personal integrity, the upright, the guileless], Who walk in the law [and who are guided by the precepts and revealed will] of the Lord. Psalms 119:1‭ AMP

The Charge:

The writer of this psalm, which is the longest chapter in the Bible, is not known, but the message of all its 176 verses is centred on the power, integrity and effect of the Word of God. This power is not in doubt at any time, as we know that the earth was created, is still being sustained by the Word, and by that same Word, this present earth has been preserved for destruction. The Word of God then becomes the standard by which all other things are measured. It won't matter how hard I try and convince myself that I am right; if God's Word says a thing, that thing will be established. I must therefore take steps to align my life with the dictates and requirements of the Word of God. 

This is where personal integrity comes in. What is the value of integrity, if it is not based on the infallible Word of God? What would be the use of principles and policies that are not grounded on the revealed Word of God? How do I convince the world to follow the perfect example of Christ, if the life of Christ does not shine out of me? This is the dilemma of all who lay claim to the name of the Lord, who claim to be led and guided by the Word of God: it has to show out in daily living. It will be crass hypocrisy and eye-service if it is not so. Talk is cheap, but a life that is led by the Word of God will always speak and men will hear and heed. Does this describe me in any way?

The Conclusion:

I note the words: "the revealed will of God". This is very important; it is the revelation of God that I have that will give direction and fuel to my perspiration. All men may read the bible, with some enjoying the historical accounts, while others love the psalms and songs, but the one thing that's critical to this conversation is what the inspiration behind the Bible helps me know and understand, and then do. It is the doing that is the fruit of the knowing. I must not be content with head-knowledge but must press on to heart-application. God has his law, revealed in the words of the bible, and as a law-abiding citizen of the kingdom of God, men must know who I am and what I stand for. Eternity lies at the end of this decision. God's time of favour is here.