As you take a cursory look at the news you see the headlines filled with stories of lies and deception and I’m not even referring to Congress.  For years Lance Armstrong told us he didn’t do drugs.  When he realized however that the truth would be made known he decided to confess the truth.  Then there is the heartbreaking story of Manti Te’o’s girlfriend who tragically died of leukemia the same day his grandmother died.  There was one big problem however – his girlfriend never existed.  This gives a whole new meaning to fantasy football.

When we lose our moral compass then we believe the end justifies the means.  We will do whatever it takes to succeed and look good.  I know because I lived the first part of my life without a reliable moral compass – I lived as if the end justified the means.  But when Christ came into my life I realized there was a moral compass that was reliable and trustworthy.

I am learning what it means to walk in integrity (note that I am learning and growing).  I’m not where I want to be but thank God I’m not where I was.  I’m learning to apply the truth of His word to everyday life such as when I may tempted to win at any cost,

Also if anyone competes as an athlete, he does not win the prize unless he competes according to the rules.  (2 Timothy 2:5)

Or if my priorities become more focused on my interests rather than God’s interests I think of the words of Jesus,

But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.  (Matthew 6:33)

We cannot control others but we can be responsible for our own actions.  In our “Culture of Personality” where many desire to look better than they really are we see that people are craving authenticity (see posts on Authenticity and being Truefaced).  Take a few moments and reflect on the words of Psalm 15,

O Lord, who may abide in Your tent?  Who may dwell on Your holy hill?
² He who walks with integrity, and works righteousness, and speaks truth in his heart.
³ He does not slander with his tongue, nor does evil to his neighbor, nor takes up a reproach against his friend;
⁴ In whose eyes a reprobate is despised, but who honors those who fear the Lord; He swears to his own hurt and does not change;
⁵ He does not put out his money at interest, nor does he take a bribe against the innocent.  He who does these things will never be shaken.

 How does your life compare with Psalm 15?  May we be counted among those who may dwell on His holy hill.

Dr. Rick Higgins

Professor of Discipleship, Columbia International University