When To Do The Right Thing

 

“Character is doing the right thing when nobody’s looking.  Some too many people think that the only right thing is to get by, and the only thing that’s wrong is to get caught.”

J. C. Watts

Politician

 

 

We have talked about how the quality of integrity will cause a person to do the right thing. I would like for us to think about what that means in the life of a person who follows the principles of successful living. We know that nothing we do ever goes unnoticed. Especially if you claim to be a believer in Christ. People are watching you all the time. That is why your life must reflect true integrity. R. Kent Hughes, the author of Disciplines of a Godly Man, wrote, “Integrity characterizes the entire person, not just part of him. He is righteous and honest through and through. He is not only that inside but also in outer actions.”

People of character know that your life must show real integrity even when you are alone. Oprah Winfrey said, “Real integrity is doing the right thing, knowing that nobody’s going to know whether you did it or not.” Integrity becomes your lifestyle, and wherever you are or whatever you are doing, that integrity will show.

However, what about that part people do see? People of character do not do the right things to show off. It is not a “Hey! Look at me!” kind of thing. They are aware that people are watching, and they are to be an example to all. Following the principles for successful living takes courage. You must say no to what is wrong and face the truth at times publicly. W. Clement Stone (1902-2002) said, “Have the courage to say no. Have the courage to face the truth. Do the right thing because it is right. These are the magic keys to living your life with integrity.”

Be willing to be that example the world needs. I love this saying from author H. Jackson Brown, Jr.: “Live so that when your children think of fairness, caring, and integrity, they think of you.” People of character desire to leave a legacy of honesty and integrity for their children more than any financial wealth they could gather. When selfish and dishonest people die, their life ends at the grave. People of character live on through their children and those whose lives they have touched with the courage to live right and influence the world for good.

 

You can learn more about Personal Development from the author and speaker, John Patrick Hickey. To get his books, training material, or book him to speak to your church, business, or group, visit our website at www.johnpatrickhickey.com.   

© 2021 John Patrick Hickey. No part of this material may be reprinted or published without the written permission of the author.