In what ways can we apply Job's integrity to modern temptations? Setting the Scene: Job 31:7 “If my steps have turned from the path, if my heart has followed my eyes, or impurity has stuck to my hands” (Job 31:7). Job invites God to examine his life. He claims he has not wandered off “the path,” let his heart chase what his eyes saw, or allowed his hands to cling to impurity. That three-fold picture—feet, heart/eyes, and hands—forms a timeless checklist for integrity. Three Temptations, Three Body Parts 1. Feet: the places we go—literal or virtual. 2. Heart/Eyes: the desires we entertain. 3. Hands: the actions we take or profit from. Modern Application #1: Financial Integrity (Hands) • Business expense reports, tax returns, online marketplaces—every transaction tests honesty. • Proverbs 11:1 “Dishonest scales are an abomination to the LORD, but an accurate weight is His delight.” • Ask, “Would I still do this deal if Christ were signing the check?” (cf. Luke 16:10). Modern Application #2: Moral Purity (Heart and Eyes) • Endless digital content puts lust and envy one click away. • Matthew 5:27-28—Jesus equates inward desire with outward act. • Psalm 101:3 “I will set no worthless thing before my eyes.” • Job models a proactive stance: cut temptation off at the eye-gate before it reaches the heart. Modern Application #3: Online Footsteps (Feet) • Our “steps” include browsing history, social feeds, gaming servers. • Ephesians 5:15-16—“Be very careful how you live… making the most of every opportunity.” • Before clicking, ask, “Does this path keep my feet aligned with God’s will?” Cultivating Job-Like Integrity • Daily self-audit: Review your feet, heart/eyes, and hands against Scripture. • Scripture saturation: The Word acts as a moral compass (Psalm 119:11). • Accountability: Invite a trusted believer to ask the hard questions (Hebrews 3:13). • Immediate correction: Repent quickly when the Spirit flags even slight deviation. Encouragement from Christ’s Example • 1 Peter 2:22—“He committed no sin, and no deceit was found in His mouth.” • 2 Corinthians 8:21—“For we are taking pains to do what is right, not only before the Lord but also before men.” • The same Spirit who upheld Job and perfectly empowered Jesus now indwells every believer (Romans 8:11), making integrity a joyful possibility, not a grim task. Conclusion: Walking the Straight Path Job shows that steadfast integrity is neither outdated nor impossible. Feet that stay on course, eyes that refuse to wander, and hands free from corruption create a life God can examine with pleasure—and a testimony the world can’t ignore. |
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