The more I deal with people in general, the more alramed I get at the lack of integrity mankind seems to exhibit. By "integrity" I infer a lack of sincere motivation, subconcious solidarity. "Menpleasers" seems to come to mind as I think of Ephesians and how Paul warns against "eye service" and simply living for the external recognition. I even catch myself seeking aproval of some supposed superior being that exists on a very horizontal plane as myself. No integrity. I and so many like me are seeking to be found laudable and appreciated by what we do in their presence or by what is recognized and perhaps applauded.
Eph 6:6 "Not with eyeservice, as menpleasers; but as the servants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart;"
What a tricky phrase that one, "from the heart." I know my heart is easily hurt, easily enticed, easily overwhelmed with my passions, but the heart I am to seek is still my heart. It is a heart that all still comes "from." My heart is still the same heart that should propell me to service which is inspired by the "will of God." INTEGRITY! It is founded in something, no, Someone greater than me. It is based upon an opinion greater than yours. My heart and my activity is to be abudantly clear. It is to have integrity of thought, integrity of conduct, integrity of spirit.
Psa 26:1-2 A Psalm of David. "Judge me, O LORD; for I have walked in mine integrity: I have trusted also in the LORD; therefore I shall not slide. Examine me, O LORD, and prove me; try my reins and my heart."
The ESV says,
Psa 26:2 "Prove me, O LORD, and try me; test my heart and my mind."
Not much difference, but the point is clear, God is looking for a heart of integrity. A heart that is sure, confident, and proven. He seeks a heart that is not seeking for confidence, but has found its security in doing what pleases the only One who truly matters.
The testing of the heart is seen in the response to His Word and how we follow that "will of God." What is the will of God? Boy, now that is a much longer discussion, but suffice it to say that His Word, the Bible, fills us with enough to keep us busy for a lifetime!
What is the status of your heart? What is the integrity of my heart like? Who will I seek to please today? Who will I strive to bring pleasure to today? May it always be Christ.
2 comments:
You constantly challenge me in my walk with God and I am so thankful for that. I love you and am excited about your new endeavor.
It is to have integrity of thought, integrity of conduct, integrity of spirit.
A heart that is sure, confident, and proven. He seeks a heart that is not seeking for confidence, but has found its security in doing what pleases the only One who truly matters.
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Oh how true! Ptr, you need to talk more about this integrity stuff and living with One audience every minute of all lives. :)
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