Integrity: Staying True to What Matters

Do you know how sometimes life throws situations at you where the easiest thing to do isn’t necessarily the right thing? That’s where integrity comes in for me. It’s about sticking to what I know is right, even when no one else is looking—or when doing the right thing feels harder, than it should.

Integrity isn’t just about big, dramatic moments; it’s in the little choices I make every day. And honestly, it’s not something I’m perfect at. I mess up. But I’ve learned that living with integrity brings a peace I can’t find anywhere else—it’s tied to my faith and how I want to honor God with my life.

What I’ve Learned About Integrity

The Bible has a lot to say about integrity, which really resonates with me. Proverbs 10:9 says, “Whoever walks in integrity walks securely, but whoever takes crooked paths will be found out.” That’s so true, isn’t it? When I’m honest and consistent in how I live, there’s no weight on my shoulders. No second-guessing or worrying about keeping up appearances.

One of my favorite verses is David’s prayer in Psalm 25:21: “May integrity and uprightness protect me, because my hope, Lord, is in you.” That verse reminds me that integrity isn’t just about my own strength—it’s about trusting God to guide me and keep me on the right path.

Living It Out in Everyday Life

Let’s be honest—choosing integrity isn’t always easy. I think about Daniel in the Bible, who stuck to his faith even when it meant being thrown into a lion’s den. That kind of boldness blows me away. Would I have the courage to make the same choice? I want to think so, but who knows?

And then there’s Jesus, the ultimate example of integrity. When He says, “I am the way, the truth, and the life” (John 14:6), He’s not just talking—He’s living it. He never wavered from what was right, even when it meant facing betrayal and death. I want to aim for that kind of integrity, even if I know I’ll fall short sometimes.

What I’m Working On

I’ll be honest—I’m still a work in progress. Integrity is something I’m constantly trying to grow in. Here’s what’s been helping me:

1. Sticking to Scripture

   I’ve found that spending time in the Bible helps me stay on track. Psalm 119:11 says, “I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.” It’s like having a compass that points me in the right direction when I’m not sure what to do.

2. Being Honest, Even When It’s Hard

   Whether it’s owning up to a mistake or choosing not to bend the truth, I’m learning that small acts of honesty make a big difference. Proverbs 12:22 says, “The Lord detests lying lips, but He delights in people who are trustworthy.” That’s the kind of person I want to be—someone God delights in.

3. Owning My Mistakes

   Look, I’m far from perfect, and when I mess up, I’ve learned it’s better to admit it quickly and move forward. Proverbs 28:13 says, “Whoever conceals their sins does not prosper, but the one who confesses and renounces them finds mercy.” It’s humbling, but it’s also freeing.

4. Surrounding Myself with Good People

   I’ve realized how important it is to have people, in my life, who will hold me accountable. You know that verse in Proverbs 27:17: “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another”? I want to build that kind of community—friends who will lovingly call me out when I need it.

   
   

Why It’s Worth It

I’ve seen firsthand how living with integrity impacts everything. It builds trust in relationships, deepens my connection with God, and brings me peace. Psalm 41:12 sums it up: “Because of my integrity, you uphold me and set me in your presence forever.” Knowing that God is with me when I do what’s right makes it all worth it.

Does it make life easier? Not always. Sometimes it’s hard, and sometimes it costs me. But in the long run, I’ve learned that the rewards far outweigh the challenges.

So here’s my question for you: 

What’s one area, in your life, where you think you could invite God to help you live with more integrity?

For me, it’s an everyday process. Some days I get it right, and some days I don’t. But I’m thankful for God’s grace and the reminder that integrity isn’t about being perfect—it’s about staying committed to what’s right and trusting Him to guide me.