Why Act with Integrity?

Satan claimed that there was only one reason why Job acted with integrity: He was strictly motivated by self-interest and personal gain. Satan claimed that Job, like all people, would be willing to compromise if God stopped protecting and blessing him.

Job was forced to face these issues—how life’s challenges would impact his beliefs, his values, and his relationship with God. Yes, he struggled and had questions. Yet he continued to cling to his “integrity.” He remained committed to do what was right, regardless of consequences, or what others said and did.

This resolution was difficult for Job’s wife to understand. She asked him, “Do you still hold fast your integrity?” She argued that it was pointless to act with integrity. Her inclination was to give up, and even curse God.

Even though Job was going through difficulties, he could not give up. He did not understand what had transpired, but realized he needed to accept what God allowed, whether that was good or trouble. The Bible concludes, “In all this Job did not sin with his lips.”

These responses challenge us to think about our own lives. What are our core values? Why, in fact, do we do what is “right”? What are our unshakable commitments?

We all may go through experiences that make us feel like giving up like Job’s wife—becoming discouraged and frustrated. Ready to forget about morality. Basing everything on self-interest. Or, we can respond like Job.

Ask God to give you an unshakable commitment to integrity. Regardless of the outcome, seeking to do what is right in every situation.