March 8, 2020

The Shepherd's Corner

The first I

     The first “I” is integrity. Integrity is something we often talk about, and usually look at as a positive trait. When we say someone has integrity it’s a positive thing – a compliment, but how often do we desire integrity not just for our own good, but because of the impact it will have on others? 

     I often think of integrity as something that holds up – something that is strong – something that can withstand a storm. That’s why we say something that is solid – like a steel wall has “integrity.” That’s why buildings and ships are built to withstand storms – they have integrity. Other things don’t have integrity because they can’t stand up against storms, stresses, or pressure. 

     One of the best definitions of personal integrity I’ve heard is that it is who we are when no one is watching. If we want to have the right type of influence in the lives of others, we must begin with living a life of integrity. This means not just living a good life based on what others would call “good”, but this means living a blameless life that no one could call anything except solid, strong, pure, and trustworthy. To truly influence others, we must look at our own lives – our words, actions, word, choices, motivations, and see if we are truly living like Jesus because His life is the path to integrity. 

Paul writes, “For we are taking pains to do what is right, not only in the eyes of the Lord but also in the eyes of people,” (2 Cor. 8:21) because he knew that without integrity, his words about Jesus would be weak, hypocritical, and not trustworthy. Paul lived a life of integrity not just for God, but keeping others in mind, because he wanted to have influence for Christ in their lives. This week, let’s look at our lives to see just how solid and full of integrity we are. 

Pastor Steve

More Shepherd's Corner Articles

The Shepherd's Corner - February 20, 2022
In one of his books, John C. Maxwell, quotes the good advice given by his friend, Zig Ziglar, “You can get everything in life you want if you will just help enough other people get what they want.”  O how true! When we help others, we are helping ourselves. When we bless others, God will [&hell...
Read More
The Shepherd's Corner - June 18, 2023
Some of us can talk about our fathers for days while some can only talk about our fathers briefly.  However, there are some who cannot talk about our fathers at all, either because they were not present during the time we grew up or it’s simply too painful to talk about them.  On the con...
Read More
The Shepherd's Corner - January 015, 2017
[:en]Last Friday I attended a funeral service.  The speaker shared his experience that over 30 years ago at the age of 35 he came to know Jesus after living a life of drug and alcohol dependency.  He said, the same day he invited Jesus to come into his life, all the craving suddenly disappeared. ...
Read More