One thing I remember my late grandma who raised me until 13 years old was her witty wisdom in 4 Chinese characters spoken in Cantonese. One saying goes like this "if you are honest, you will be poor forever". There is much truth in this despite various examples in the OT how God blessed the patriarchs with riches, they who lived exemplary lives of honesty and integrity in most instances. I cannot emphasize enough that the twin pillars of my ministry are honesty and integrity. Honesty before God and men for God knows our hearts and there is nothing hidden from Him.
Honesty before men as they deserve our truthfulness and not half-truths or outright lies. But alas, how many people really practiced this to their hurt if need be. Our word is our bond and we will fulfill it in good time. We don't say one thing and then try not to keep our promises witu excuses despite the tuck of conscience. Sooner or later if we practise falsehood, our conscience will be seared and we won't hear God speaking to us anymore. It is damning if God has given us up. What about integrity? Integrity is the force of character that does what one says and what one feels is communicated outwardly in all truth, wisdom and understanding. There is no compromise or wavering in a person of integrity. No wonder God chose David because it is said that he shepherded them withr the integrity of heart and skillful hands. It is a matter of the heart. If a person of integrity is called to God's service, his heart tells him that he will stay straight in the way, most of all a heart filled with God's love and out of God's fullness, he ministers to those around him in love. No one is not touched by love. Nothing is more needed than love. Loving God and loving our neighbours, especially our Christian brothers and sisters consistently is the mark of a person of integrity.
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