You know Liewe Heksie? She doesn’t know that many words and when King Rosekrans uses a big word she doesn’t understand, she is so embarrassed that she bores a hole in the ground with her big toe. I’m having a moment like that as I wonder what exactly the word integrity means.

Fortunately, we are one up on Heksie and can ask Mr Google to explain the meaning of integrity to us. The first website that comes up is a language dictionary and to my surprise the third example is as follows: Jesus was a man of integrity, and that is why He is held in high regard.

Surprising that a secular website would use such an example. Jesus did indeed make such an impact here on earth that many look up to Him and like to use Him as the perfect example.

A person of integrity is always honest, lives in the light, and is not afraid to have the spotlight on everything he or she does or says. It doesn’t matter what they do, people will always say afterwards: It was the right thing to do. Everybody knows it.

The other day I went looking for a new canopy for my gazebo. The old one had been destroyed by the sun. One branch of a large outdoor shop could give me the price, but they had not stock. I drove to the neighbouring town and saw the same shop. They had the canopy in stock, but didn’t know the price. I waited for a long time, but eventually the manager came and confirmed the price. It was the same as at the other one.

Why didn’t I tell him what the price was? Was I hoping that he couldn’t find it and would give me a cheaper price? Would I have told him that it was the wrong price?

If integrity was my first consideration, I would have mentioned the price right at the start and paid it.

Let’s make it a bit more personal. If the cashier gave you too much change, would you return it or keep it? It’s his or her mistake, not yours. Integrity would return it right there without thinking twice.

I saw an article in a magazine asking what people with integrity have in common:

1. 1. They are honest.
   2. They are sincere.
   3. They have appreciation for people.
   4. They have respect for other people’s time.
   5. They do not abuse people.
   6. They deal with conflict in a civilised manner.
   7. They are sensitive to other people’s feelings.
   8. They know how to say sorry.
   9. They are humble.
   10. They do good wherever they can.

Looking at that list, I realise I need to work on my integrity, because it’s the right thing to do.

Scripture
Titus 2:6-8

Reflection
How strong is the role that integrity plays in your life?
Where have you missed the target?
Where do you have to act with more integrity?

Prayer
Lord, sometimes I hide integrity a bit and rather do what I want. I know this is not always in line with your will. Doing wrong creeps up on me like a thief in the night. I don’t want to do it, but when I look again, I’ve failed. Please help me, Father. Amen.