Integrity on and Off the FieldSample

Wholeness

Ready:  Read Proverbs 11:3

Set: Golf is a great sport to examine an athlete’s integrity. After all, it’s the only sport that allows its participants to call penalties on themselves. 

In 2010, at the Verizon Heritage event in Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, PGA Tour pro Brian Davis touched a loose reed in a marshy area next to the green on the first playoff hole. He called a two-stroke penalty on himself. That self-imposed infraction effectively gave the tournament title to Jim Furyk, costing Davis a chance at victory. 

What does integrity look like in your life?

Wholeness in our public and private lives is essential as followers of Christ. If the goal is to resemble Christ more every day, the words we say and our actions in public should reflect our thoughts and our actions in private. 

Whether it’s the things you do when no one is watching, or the thoughts and feelings only you know exist in your mind, living a life of integrity is extremely personal, only known by yourself and God.

Living a life of integrity is a personal choice. Every decision we make—large or small—must run through our own personal integrity filter, examining how it agrees or disagrees with our thoughts and beliefs. Ask God to fill those spaces with His support to help you to live a whole, complete life in Him. – Shane Williamson 

Go:

1. What does integrity mean to you? 
2. Where are you tempted to cut corners in your life and sport? 
3. How can you best surround yourself with people who will keep your integrity upright?

Workout: 

• Psalm 41:11-12
• Proverbs 28:6
• Philippians 4:8

Overtime: Father, it is hard to make right choices when so often I want to choose what is easy over what is best. Help me discern what You would have me do in each situation and allow me the strength and faith to live in a way that pleases You. Amen.

This text appeared in FCA Magazine. To learn more about the magazine, click here.