Introductory Thoughts
As this study has shown, integrity is a matter of the heart, yet it also affects every other aspect of a man’s life. Though men sometimes try to separate an individual’s walk from his true heart’s condition, the Bible reveals the futility of such. Testifying to this truth, the Bible speaks of walking in integrity (Psalm 26:1, 11; Proverbs 19:1; Proverbs 20:7). The Bible says that “by their fruits ye shall know them” (Matthew 7:16, 20) and this principle applies to one’s integrity too. Our passage from Proverbs reveals that as the “just” man walks in his integrity, his children are likewise blessed because of his walk. The secrets of a person’s heart are often unveiled in his walk. Furthermore, a man who walks in his integrity does not fear the judgment of God (Psalm 26:1). Men need integrity of heart, but that integrity must manifest itself in their daily walk.
Devotional Thoughts
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(For children): The Bible says Daniel had already "purposed in his heart" (settled the matter) that he was not going to eat or drink those things that God did not permit, even though it was appointed by the king of Babylon (Daniel 1:5, 8). Daniel wanted to live so that other people could tell that he loved God. We should live like that too.
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(For everyone): Do your outward actions display an inward heart of integrity? Do others recognize you as a God-fearing, born-again believer? Do they readily notice that there is something different about you?
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Do your words and actions exhibit righteousness and holiness or perverseness? Do they testify of an innocent heart or one filled with the filth of this world?
Prayer Thoughts
- Ask God to show you that your walk in this world is important.
- Ask God to remind you that your actions speak for your heart.
Song
Take Time to Be Holy
