Integrity

The Bible talks a lot about money, probably because it effects so much of our life.

Financial decisions impact where we live, our career paths, and even the number of opportunities available to us. Sometimes these impacts can be very positive. Other times the effect is not so positive. We may experience stress, depression, even physical symptoms such as headaches or ulcers. Sadly, some of the most devastating negative effects of financial decisions are on our closest relationships.

While it is easy to blame money for many personal and societal ills, it is not entirely accurate. Many of these problems are related to a much bigger problem...integrity, or rather, the lack of integrity. When integrity is absent, we make decisions that are short-sighted, convenient, and often not in the best interest of ourselves or the people that matter most to us.

This week we'll look at integrity. Unfortunately, the standard for integrity has slipped to an idea of simply doing what you say you will do. It has become a very personal decision measured by what is 'right for me'. So the first step is to clarify what exactly we mean by integrity. The integrity we are talking about is a much higher standard. It is the same standard for every person. Here's a very practical example of why this is important.

Take a minute to consider an economy that let each of us set our cell phones to whatever time we wanted. Granted you might catch up on some much needed sleep, but without some standard time how would you hook up with your friends at the mall, a movie, or even for that weekend road trip? It would be confusing, chaotic, and probably somewhat frustrating.

Listen to these people’s experiences with integrity. As you do, take a look at how you’re doing and what standard you are using.