Integrity

A famous program from the early days of television asked, “Who Do You Trust?” Today, when asked that question, most Americans indicate that they really trust no one!

This conclusion was confirmed in a recent survey that revealed just how widespread was the sense of mistrust. In fact, nearly half say they don’t trust any news source. They were skeptical, feeling that, in some ways, every source had other motives than truth. Business and government also ranked high in mistrust, while the advertising industry ranked last in trustworthiness.

A major cause of this mistrust was a perceived lack of integrity. One conclusion was that “integrity is at a low and that people are lying to them.” And how did people define “integrity”? For most people, it meant “always keeping promises.” But the sense was that few today really meant what they said, or kept promises.

So who did have integrity? The most popular answer by a wide margin was “you yourself.” But it is hard not to realize that much of this trust is subjective. People may trust themselves, believing the best about their own intentions. But do others feel the same way?

As this information makes clear, we live in a world where distrust is high. What a great opportunity for Believers! Remember that no one is perfect. Be ready to forgive others that you might be forgiven (Matthew 6:12). But also remember that if you confess your sins, “He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:9).

In your life, seek to be a person of integrity. To witness to others through your words and deeds. Ask God to help you be trustworthy, living according to His principles, letting your “yes” mean “yes,” and your “no” mean “no” (Matthew 5:37). A person who keeps promises.