It's Called Integrity

 "A person of integrity is one who has established a system of values

against which all of life is judged."

V. Gilbert Beers

Author

 

We often think of integrity as doing what is right. It is far more profound than that, however. Just doing the right thing is acceptable behavior. Even the most dishonest person will do the right thing from time to time because it is advantageous. True integrity, however, is a quality in a person that results in doing the right thing all of the time. It is their moral compass, which directs their lives and results in the right actions. It is their character.

People who believe in the principles of Christian character build the quality of integrity into their lives. It is not by what they can and cannot do, but by learning and understanding the right thing to do. Those who do not understand this quality always see it as rules and restrictions, but that is never true. It is like the French Philosopher Albert Camus (1913-1960) said, "Integrity does not need rules."

People who live for their gain see integrity as rules because they have to force themselves to right behavior. On the other hand, godly people know that since it comes from within, there is no effort, only a natural desire to do what is right. Inventor R. Buckminster Fuller (1895-1983) said, "Integrity is the essence of everything successful." It will always bring a good outcome and always pave the way for more success.

Here is the challenge; however, we are bombarded every day with reasons to compromise. The thinking is that a person does not have to be right all the time and that everyone gives in to compromise now and then. Nigerian author Chinua Achebe (1930-2013) understood this when he wrote, "One of the truest tests of integrity is its blunt refusal to be compromised." He knew that successful people do not compromise, no matter what those around him or her may do.

Remember that to be a person of integrity, you must see it as a character trait, not a behavior. You do what is right because it is right. Many things are legal and permissible but are not always right. The godly person knows the difference. They will not blur the right and wrong lines and hide behind the excuse that it is legal or that others do it. It is a hard stand to take, but it will lead to a more excellent victory in life and a more prosperous future.

 

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.