Elegant Themes Blog

Ed Young Devotionals

    Integrity Affords Opportunity

    Posted on Sep 19, 2017 12:00:00 AM

    Read

    Daniel 5:12-13, "Daniel... was found to have a keen mind, and knowledge and understanding, and also the ability to interpret dreams, explain riddles and solve difficult problems... So Daniel was brought before the king, and the king said to him, "Are you Daniel, one of the exiles my father the king brought from Judah?"

    Think

    Integrity is a byproduct of self-awareness. In fact, it is a key foundational element of godly character and leadership. A person with integrity knows what matters most to God, and continuously lives in light of that knowledge. Integrity involves living out God's values, in public and in private. Daniel was known for his godly character, discernment, and wisdom. A man with some major backbone, he was unflappable - even when called to deliver unfortunate news. Think about it. Daniel was subject to death if the king didn't like what he had to say. Yet he was undeterred because he trusted God. His reputable character, uncompromising honesty, and integrity preceded him, and it afforded him the opportunity to speak into the lives of multiple kings. The word integrity is a derivative of the word integer, meaning "whole." Self-awareness means to know that in our brokenness, God makes us whole. And when we consistently align our priorities with God's priorities, we are wholly useful to Him and will be afforded opportunities to speak His truth into the lives of others.

    Act

    A great example of Daniel's unwillingness to compromise his integrity is found Daniel 1. After reading the chapter, answer the following questions: Do I submit to God's will and seek to please Him in all I do? Can others depend on me to do what is right? Am I compromising my values in any areas? Do I trust God no matter the outcome?

    Pray

    Father God, I trust You and seek opportunities to speak Your truth into the lives of others. Help me to remain humble, sincere, transparent, and accountable for all of my words and actions. In Jesus' name I pray, Amen.

    Topics: integrity, opportunity