There is one word-in leadership and in life-that never has and never will go out of style.
That one word? I.N.T.E.G.R.I.T.Y.
Integrity has been defined as “who you are when no one’s looking.” That is a pretty spot on definition but in some ways it is almost incomplete. I get what the definition is saying. Many people are one way in public and another in private. The “up front” persona picture people see is no where near the “in secret” persona. I’ll let you pursue that thought on your own.
But I also think that saying might be a tad bit short on meaning. Being who we are behind the scenes as we are up front is vital. But…what do people see up front? It is someone worth emulating? Is it someone worth following?
I was reminded of that this morning as I read Titus 2:7-8- “Show yourself in all respects to be a model of good works, and in your teaching show integrity, dignity, and sound speech that cannot be condemned, so that an opponent may be put to shame, having nothing evil to say about us.” Do you see the word “model?” Do you see the words “integrity, dignity, and sound speech?” Those are some serious words! And they come with some meaning and challenge. My translation of that verse is “Live in such a way that when someone says something bad about you people will know they are lying.”
I thought of the Apostle Peter’s words in I Peter 3:16-17- “Having a good conscience, so that, when you are slandered, those who revile your good behavior in Christ may be put to shame. For it is better to suffer for doing good, if that should be God’s will, than for doing evil.”
Integrity means being who we say we are-in private and in public.
Both Titus and Peter speak volumes. I think especially now, as Christians, and in a culture that is moving further and further away from the values that I believe are consistent with living a life that is honoring to God… The targets on our backs will continue to get bigger. I do think it is important to be consistent with our faith both privately and publicly, but I also think it is important that we be open and honest about our own imperfections and weaknesses. I think the lack of accountability is a significant hindrance in maintaining ones integrity.
Well said Ryan. Without a doubt we have that target on our back. A lack of integrity and accountability is the culprit for much of the disgust we face today as followers of Christ.
More true and inspirational facts here, Bill! Remember how Popeye used to say, “I am what I am and that’s all that I am”? What we show the world should be who we truly are.
Blessings!
Are we telling our age Martha? I do remember that and used to watch the cartoons. 🙂 We do need to show the world who we truly are.
Absolute truth Bill. Being who we are and in both private and public,is a direct reflection of our relationship with Christ. You might be able to fool some people but you cannot hide the truth from Christ. If you are able to compartmentalize your life in public from your private thoughts, you absolutely need to do a head to heart check, and fix your relationship with Christ. Because it not the relationship you think it is if you are able to be someone else in public in order to give the impression you are somebody else.
You speak truth Gail. I, too, believe it is a direct reflection of Christ in us and we need to get away from compartmentalization.
Wonderful thoughts, Pastor Bill. My parents spoke often of how important it is to maintain integrity. Those kinds of lessons follow us all the days of our lives.
Thanks Cheryl and your parents were wise people.