Proverbs 10: 7 Habits of High Integrity People

Image courtesy of Stuart Miles / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Image courtesy of Stuart Miles / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Integrity, like dishonesty, is a proactive choice.

Living and growing with integrity is an important theme in Proverbs 10.

9 The man of integrity walks securely,
but he who takes crooked paths will be found out.

Like a leopard is recognized for its spots, people of integrity are recognized for their reliability, honesty, excellence, humility, and self-confidence.

The following are 7 habits of Integrity—someone we should all aspire to be.

  1. Walks a straight path—Integrity does not cheat or cut corners; Integrity consistently does the right thing at all times and under all circumstances, even when nobody is watching.
  2. Accepts discipline—Integrity lives a disciplined life that treasures knowledge and happily welcomes correction.
  3. Understands that “too much talk leads to sin”—Integrity demonstrates good judgement: she knows when to talk and when to shut her mouth!
  4. Works hard—while “lazy people irritate their employers, like vinegar to the teeth or smoke in the eyes,” Integrity demonstrates diligence and strong leadership.
  5. Speaks words of wisdom and affirmation—Integrity encourages and helps many, knowing that love makes up for all offences; her words are like sterling silver, a life-giving fountain where “yes”means “yes” and “no” means “no.”
  6. Fosters a culture of integrity—Integrity lives in hope, not fear; when storms of life come, she stands firm; she is incorruptible.
  7. Develops godly-based core values—Integrity usually has a lasting foundation in God: the fear of the Lord (and hatred of evil) adds length to life.

Value Integrity, uphold her. Your integrity is what determines your reputation.

Remember: It takes 20 years to build a reputation and 5 minutes to ruin it (Warren Buffet).

How do you develop integrity in your daily life?  When did you fail to have integrity when you should have? Are you living a legacy to be proud of?

A good and honest life is a blessed memorial;
a wicked life leaves a rotten stench (Proverbs 10:7)

Grow yourself: