Have you begun exploring what it means to follow Christ, but are sensing that there is more? Maybe you've been a Christian a while but have moved away from your closeness with Christ. In this series, we talk about some key elements to growing and getting stronger as a follower of Christ.
Psalm 15: 1-5
#1. Understanding integrity
Integrity is...
- Your desire to be the same person in every aspect of your life.
- A desire to honor God in every area of your life.
Psalm 15: 2-5b
He who walks with integrity, and works righteousness,
- A person of integrity seeks to do what is right
And speaks truth in his heart.
- A person of integrity speaks truth from a sincere heart
3 He does not slander with his tongue,
- A person of integrity does not speak badly about other people
Nor does evil to his neighbor, nor takes up a reproach against his friend;
- A person of integrity does not do anything to harm other people
4 In whose eyes a reprobate is despised,
- A person of integrity is bothered when wrong is done
But who honors those who fear the LORD;
- A person of integrity loves to see people follow God’s will
He swears to his own hurt and does not change;
- A person of integrity keeps their word even when it is hard
5 He does not put out his money at interest,
- A person of integrity does not take advantage of other people
Nor does he take a bribe against the innocent.
- A person of integrity will not sacrifice others for their own interests
#2. The importance of integrity
Psalm 15: 1, 5c
2 reasons to live a life of integrity:
- to be close to God
- to live a solid life
What is it costing me to not follow God?
#3. The path to integrity
Psalm 15: 2-5b
How to become a person of integrity:
- be saved
John 3: 3
Proverbs 15: 3
- deliberately choose a life of integrity
Daniel 1: 8a
- surrender your life to God each day
- consider the impact
Ephesians 4: 14
- have support from others
Proverbs 13: 20
- when your defenses are down, rely on God’s past instructions