Integrity
Singleness of Heart
Some mistakenly associate the word “integrity” only with reputation — an external appearance. True
integrity is a quality of character — an inward reality that refers to singleness of heart or mind, the development of a blameless character by adhering to an exemplary moral code. The biblical model of integrity is marked by several distinct features:
* innocent actions (Gen. 20:5);
* a clear conscience (Acts 24:16; Heb. 13:18);
* fear of God, truthfulness, and opposition to covetousness (Ex. 18:21);
* blamelessness and uprightness (Job 2:3; Ps. 25:21);
* righteousness (Ps. 7:8);
* freedom from that which is shameful, crafty, or deceitful (2 Cor. 4:2);
* refusal to serve idols (Ps. 24:3–5);
* disassociation with evil doers (Ps. 26:4);
* honorable behavior (2 Cor. 8:21; 1 Pet. 2:12).
The Hebrews understood that:
* integrity of heart guides a person into right and rewarding situations (Prov. 11:3);
* integrity is more acceptable to the Lord than sacrifice (Prov. 21:3), and
* a person’s integrity silences critics (1 Pet. 2:13–17).
Integrity provides a “mindset” toward righteousness and an abiding intent to do the will of God and to walk in His ways.
Taken from The Woman’s Study Bible
“Who may ascend into the hill of the Lord? And who may stand in His holy place? He who has clean hands and a pure heart, Who has not lifted up his soul to falsehood And has not sworn deceitfully. He shall receive a blessing from the Lord And righteousness from the God of his salvation.”
Psalms 24:3-5
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