Integrity

Integrity is a quality more easily admired in another than defined. It is a personal choice to hold oneself to consistent moral and ethical standards. It means, literally, having wholeness of character, just as an integer is a whole number.

In Australia, Medical and Surgical Colleges have found it necessary to remind doctors of their need of integrity in their practice. Churches have often emphasised the spiritual component of life, but not given adequate emphasis to the underlying foundation of moral qualities. Integrity requires a strong moral compass.

Jesus is our model, yet the word integrity is not to be found (as such) in the New Testament. It’s as though God in His grace and wisdom has given us the freedom to choose our speech and actions.

We are tested and challenged in all we say and do in the many and varied circumstances of family and professional life. To maintain integrity requires courage; it requires also the willingness to acknowledge where we have failed, then to address the issues within ourselves. To say sorry, and really mean it, may be very difficult, but can be most healing for our inner life and relationships.

The challenge is to give up or to get up!

“Rise up O man of God
Have done with lesser things.”

Others look to you. Others pray for you.

Prayer:
I would be true, for there are those who trust me,
I would be pure, for there are those who care.
I would be strong for there is much to suffer,
I would be brave, for there is much to dare.