HONESTY IN WORDS AND DEEDS

Before becoming the President of the United States, Abraham Lincoln worked as a store cashier. One day, he realized that he had given back less change to a customer. Although the amount was small and the customer might have forgotten, Lincoln chose to walk at night to return the money. That is integrity and honesty!

Psalm 15 begins with the question, 'Lord, who may dwell in your sacred tent?' The answer immediately points to character, not rituals. The phrase 'does no wrong' describes complete integrity, while 'speaks the truth from their heart' emphasizes honesty that comes from the core of our being. This is the truth in the heart that then shines through words and actions. Integrity is tested in everyday relationships. The psalmist prohibits the people from 'gossiping'. Then he encourages them to 'keep their oaths even when it hurts', which means keeping promises not for personal gain, but because it is right before God. This is true integrity - words and deeds in harmony, even when the cost is high.

This psalm includes God's promise, 'they will never be shaken'. This is a picture of moral and spiritual stability. But who can reach this standard? Only Jesus Christ. He is the one who perfectly 'speaks the truth from their heart,' never slanders, and obeys His Father, even to the cross. Now by His Spirit, we are empowered to live in honesty that glorifies Him. Our honesty is not a condition for acceptance, but a grateful response for being accepted in Christ. Let us now manifest a life full of integrity and honesty in our words and deeds daily. --DSK/www.renunganharian.net