WALK IN INTEGRITY

“Vindicate me, O LORD, for I have WALKED in my INTEGRITY. I have also trusted in the LORD; I shall not slip” – Psalm 26:1

To walk in perfection is to WALK IN INTEGRITY: “Vindicate me, O LORD, for I have WALKED in my INTEGRITY. I have also trusted in the LORD; I shall not slip” (Psa.26:1). This Psalm is a protest of innocence which begins and ends with Integrity (vv. 1, 12). Integrity derives from the word “integer” meaning: the whole, a whole number not a fraction. Integrity denotes: whole character, authenticity, completeness, consistency, honesty, incorruptness, truthfulness, and uprightness in mutual dealings and in representing others. Integrity is like a shield, especially against false accusation. Leaders are often blamed falsely. The Israelites blamed Moses for lack of water, bitter water, enemies' attacks and lack of food. Daniel overcame false accusation. David was also falsely accused, and in this Psalm he took four steps to deal with slander:

An honest examination, prayer for vindication and assertion of integrity (v.1-3): Human nature rarely admits its error, but we need to examine ourselves. There are no degrees of honesty. David walked in integrity and in faith, without wavering. He opened up before God, walking in the light and letting God examine him. We save ourselves much trouble if we live a life that bears scrutiny (Psa.101: 2, 6-7). If we are right before God, it makes no difference what people say.

A holy separation (vv.4, 5): People accused David of being a hypocrite, even though he did not worship false gods. Obeying the biblical doctrine of holy separation reflects integrity (2Cor.6:14-18).

A happy celebration and vow of praise (vv.6-8): David washed his hands in innocence, praising, loving and glorifying God with a conscience devoid of condemnation.

A humble determination and re-assertion of integrity (vv.9-12): David affirmed his Integrity like a great defence and shield. God guards, protects, and gives victory to people of integrity. Character is an amazing shield against evil accusations. A good conscience enhances courage in times of difficulty.

The person of Integrity is a whole person: undivided, not camouflaging for different circumstances – private or public. Integrity has the same root word as does the word integrated. A person of integrity is unimpeachable. He or she stands by principles no matter the consequences; even at the cost of a relationship, reputation, promotion, job or even life. Integrity does not change direction with shifting social winds. With Integrity, what you see is what you get! It is being on the inside what you appear to be on the outside. Public and private conducts align. There is congruency between word and deed. What is preached is what is practiced. Life matches lips! Jesus described some who “say, and do not” (Mt.23:2-3). Integrity is who you really are internally; and who you are when nobody’s looking. But, God is always looking (Pro.15:3).

Character, in Greek, comes from the word for an engraving instrument applied repeatedly over a piece of stone or glass to cut in an image. Character is engraved in you and reveals whom you really are. True character is determined by consistent decisions and actions taken over time. Character is superior to achievements, affluence or fame (Psa.19:1). Devoid of character, these are vain. Reputation is people’s perception of you; character is what God knows you are. The gorge between the two is hypocrisy! The Bible word for hypocrisy derives from putting on a mask in a Greek theatre. Hypocrites put masks on and act like they are something they are not. What a person is in God’s sight is what a person truly is!

You never know when Integrity will be tested! But integrity shines brightest against the backdrop of adversity. People can hurt you with false accusations, but they need not defeat you. Jesus displayed Integrity (Jh.14:30b). Integrity is an undivided heart (1Chr.12:33). David's feet stood unmoved: “I shall not slip” (v.1b). If you walk with integrity, your character will shield you. Keep yourself pure and avoid compromising situations. When you are slandered, God's Grace, Word and truth will defend you. Secret indulgences undermine integrity; but life is sweet when what you say and what you do match up!