Integrity or Dishonesty

Photo Credit: Waterfalls Wallpaper

 

He who walks with integrity walks securely,
      But he who perverts his ways will become known. 

Proverb 10:9 NKJV [emphasis added]

I remember as a child one day I broke something then hid it, so my parents would not know. Of course, they found the broken item and inquired with me about it. Thinking I would be in trouble, I replied, “My sisters broke it and hid it.” My parent believing what I told them was truth, disciplined my sisters. Not long afterward Mom and Dad found out the truth. I tell you I received the worst spanking I ever got for that one. Of course, my sisters were not too happy with me either. It was not me breaking this thing which brought discipline, but my dishonesty. My incident here is a perfect example for Proverb 10:9. I perverted my way and I was found out. If I was honest to begin with, all would have been well. No punishment, no upset sisters. My parents would have respected my honesty.

Integrity, See the definition from Dictionary.com below:

in·teg·ri·ty [in-teg-ri-tee]

noun

1. adherence to moral and ethical principles; soundness of moral character; honesty.

2. the state of being whole, entire, or undiminished: to preserve the integrity of the empire.

3. a sound, unimpaired, or perfect condition: the integrity of a ship's hull.

Origin:
1400–50; late Middle English integrite  < Latin integritās. See integer, -ity

Synonyms
1.  rectitude, probity, virtue. See honor.

Antonyms
1.  dishonesty.  
Integrity. (n.d.). Dictionary.com Unabridged. Retrieved January 03, 2012, from Dictionary.com website: http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/Integrity [emphasis added]

A part of the definition for “integrity” is “honesty.” That is, speaking the truth and being who you say you are. In our fallen, sinful state, the temptation is strong to avoid the consequences for our actions. We want to cover up our transgressions through dishonesty. Sometimes we seek gain through dishonesty. However, how does this affect our relationships with other people? We lose peoples trust. We may even become a suspect at times even when we are innocent.

How does dishonesty affect our relationship with God? We are to worship God in “spirit and truth.” How can we worship God in spirit and truth when we are dishonest? We pray, and our prayers just bounce off the ceiling. Maybe we do not pray at all. Then we lose that precious communion with God.

How does dishonesty affect our relationship with ourselves? Oh yes we can be dishonest with ourselves. Maybe we have a drinking or anger problem we refuse to admit and continue on without seeking help. This may not only hurt ourselves, but also harm people dear to us.

Just something to think about, one act of dishonesty may cause others to lose their trust in you. Is dishonesty worth it? There will be a price to pay.