Topic: Watch your integrity
Bible Reading: 1 Samuel 7, 8, 9, Luke 13:1-21.
Memory Verse: “And he said unto him, Behold now, there is in this city a man of God, and he is an honourable man; all that he saith cometh surely to pass: now let us go thither; peradventure he can shew us our way that we should go.” 1 Samuel 9:6 (KJV).
People around you are watching to see whether you are a man of your words. They may not tell you directly but they watch you to know to what extent you are reliable. What you do to your servants, workers, children, friends and associates will count towards who you are. And the people will follow you to know whether you are a man of honour or not.
Some years ago, my office engaged an IT man to work on a software. He was a friend to one of the directors and so he had access to all the other directors. One day I was reviewing the agreement with him and there was a clause on what he should have done and suddenly, he reacted that he would tear any agreement that does not favour him. I thought he was joking and I re-presented this to him but he remained adamant on his comment. Subsequently, we terminated the contract as we could no longer deal with someone we could not vouch for his integrity. The bible says in 1 Samuel 9:6 (KJV), “And he said unto him, Behold now, there is in this city a man of God, and he is an honourable man; all that he saith cometh surely to pass: now let us go thither; peradventure he can shew us our way that we should go.”
It was Saul’s servant that analysed Samuel’s character in the bible verse above. The comments are apt, He was a man of God, a Honourable man and whatever he said came surely to pass! That testimony speaks volume about Samuel’s integrity. What will people say about you when you are not there? Any believer without integrity is not sanctified! Sanctification involves transformation of character to be conformed to Christ. If you are a child of God and people cannot vouch for your integrity, you need to examine yourself and take immediate steps to live in line with the precepts of God. James 5:12 (KJV), “But above all things, my brethren, swear not, neither by heaven, neither by the earth, neither by any other oath: but let your yea be yea; and your nay, nay; lest ye fall into condemnation.”
A life of integrity is the best way to evangelise Christ as you become a role model that several people will like to copy and thus come to the knowledge of Christ your Saviour.
Action point:
Examine yourself whether you live a life of integrity. If not, prayerfully work on yourself to ensure you conform to the image of Christ.
Bro. Biodun Oyapero