A Blog Post and Teaching Tool

Integrity is a cornerstone of a godly life, guiding us in our actions, relationships, and leadership. As followers of Christ, we’re called to live with moral soundness and uprightness, reflecting God’s character in all we do. Let’s explore what integrity means, how it’s exemplified in Scripture, and practical ways to cultivate and maintain it in our lives.

1. Defining Integrity: A Biblical and Practical Perspective

The Hebrew word for “integrity” (tummah) means “whole, sound, or unimpaired.” It appears 16 times in the Old Testament, highlighting traits like financial accountability, personal reliability, and pure motives. For example, integrity distinguishes between pure and impure conduct, as seen in the lives of biblical figures like Job and David. Max DePree, former CEO of Herman Miller, Inc., defines integrity as having “a fine sense of one’s obligations,” emphasizing duty and honor.

Dictionaries offer three key definitions of integrity:

• Wholeness: The quality of being complete, undivided, or unbroken.
• Soundness: An unimpaired condition, free from corruption.
• Moral Uprightness: Living with honesty and virtue.

In the Old Testament, integrity reflects a state of being “without blemish,” embodying completeness, sincerity, and uprightness. In the New Testament, integrity is expressed through honesty and a consistent pattern of good works, as seen in Titus 2:7 (NKJV): “In all things showing yourself to be a pattern of good works; in doctrine showing integrity, reverence, incorruptibility.”

2. Integrity in Scripture: 16 Key Verses

The word “integrity” appears 16 times in the King James Version of the Bible, all in the Old Testament. Let’s examine these scriptures to see how integrity shapes a godly life:

• Genesis 20:5-6: Abimelech acted with integrity of heart, and God protected him from sinning unknowingly.
• 1 Kings 9:4: God called Solomon to walk in integrity and uprightness, as his father David did.
• Job 2:3, 2:9, 27:5, 31:6: Despite immense suffering, Job held fast to his integrity, refusing to curse God.
• Psalm 7:8, 25:21, 26:1, 26:11, 41:12: David repeatedly prayed for God to judge and uphold him because of his integrity, trusting it would preserve him.
• Psalm 78:72: David shepherded Israel with integrity of heart and skillful hands.
• Proverbs 11:3, 19:1, 20:7: Integrity guides the upright, brings blessing, and even benefits their children.

These verses show that integrity isn’t just about moral perfection—it’s about a heart aligned with God’s truth, even in the face of trials.

3. Effectively Improving Integrity: Building a Life of Character

To grow in integrity, we must align our values with God’s Word and live them out intentionally. Here’s how:

Create a Personal Vision Statement and Core Values
As someone aspiring to be a great leader, I’ve learned that integrity is foundational to leadership. Great leaders are accountable, truthful, and selfless. My personal vision statement is: Honor God and expand my influence through accountability, truth-speaking, and walking in love.

When teaching leadership, I emphasize that how you lead reflects who you are. Great leadership—and integrity—requires a lifelong pursuit of these 10 core values:

• Courage: Stand firm in your convictions, even when criticized. Leaders with integrity overcome intimidation (Joshua 1:9).
• Credibility: Be truthful and authentic, avoiding deception or self-promotion.
• Favor with Others: Build trust by showing you have others’ best interests at heart. Encourage and reward their efforts.
• Trust: Earn trust through consistent, time-tested actions.
• Positive Attitude: Lead with positivity, avoiding complaints or negativity (Philippians 2:14-15).
• Ownership: Take initiative with enthusiasm, delivering on commitments despite pressure.
• Work Ethic: A strong work ethic inspires others and reflects responsibility (Colossians 3:23).
• Help Others: Support others’ growth rather than criticizing their mistakes. Their success reflects your leadership.
• Communication: Foster clarity and encouragement through face-to-face interaction, avoiding confusion or discouragement.
• Respect: Treat others as you’d want to be treated, avoiding partiality (James 2:9).

These values not only build integrity but also develop character and maintain accountability in leadership and life. Adopting a servant-hearted mindset—modeled by Jesus in Mark 10:45—lays the foundation for leading with integrity.

4. Effectively Maintaining Integrity: Living Transparently

Living with integrity requires ongoing commitment and transparency. Here are practical steps to sustain it:

Share Your Testimonies and Live Transparently
Growth often comes outside our comfort zones. I’ve found that overcoming adversity—whether hardship or personal flaws—strengthens my integrity. Sharing these stories as part of my testimony blesses others and keeps me accountable as a father, mentor, and follower of Jesus. Transparency is freeing and fosters generosity, as Keith Alexis writes in Donkey Tales: “Every time we face the deserts of life, action is required on our part… It requires effort to seek out life, re-dig the wells, and stand in the storm holding a bucket.”

Pray and Seek Truth
I prayerfully and vigorously pursue truth, refusing to dwell in shadows or ignorance. As Pastor Rock notes, “Spiritual ignorance and hunger is a dangerous brew.” The Holy Spirit gives discernment to those who seek truth (John 16:13). I stay alert to warning signs, ready to respond boldly because my hope is grounded in the Lord.

Stay Grounded in God’s Word
Daily devotion to Scripture keeps me rooted. Meditating on God’s Word allows the Holy Spirit to transform me (Psalm 119:11). It’s my secret to overcoming challenges and living with integrity.

Seek a Mentor
Surround yourself with spiritually mature mentors. Gleaning from their wisdom can illuminate truths you might otherwise miss, helping you grow in integrity and faith (Proverbs 27:17).

Conclusion: A Call to Integrity

Integrity is more than a concept—it’s a way of life that reflects God’s character. Whether you’re leading others or simply striving to honor God, let integrity guide your steps. Reflect on the scriptures we’ve explored, adopt values that align with God’s truth, and live transparently before Him and others. As Proverbs 20:7 reminds us, “The just man walks in his integrity; his children are blessed after him.” Let’s commit to walking in integrity, trusting God to use our lives for His glory.

Reflection Questions for Teaching or Personal Growth:

• Which of the 16 scriptures on integrity resonates most with you, and why?
• How can you apply one of the 10 core values to your life or leadership this week?
• What steps can you take to live more transparently and grow in integrity?