In what ways can we apply this principle in our daily interactions? Setting the Stage “For we are taking great care to do what is right, not only in the eyes of the Lord, but also in the eyes of men.” (2 Corinthians 8:21) Core Principle from 2 Corinthians 8:21 • God expects deliberate, consistent integrity. • The standard is double-layered: what pleases Him and what is visibly honorable to people. • Our credibility before a watching world either confirms or undermines our verbal witness. Why It Matters • We bear Christ’s name; His reputation is bound to our conduct (2 Corinthians 5:20). • Visible righteousness removes stumbling blocks from unbelievers (1 Peter 2:12). • Internal integrity guards the conscience and invites God’s blessing (Psalm 24:3-4). Practical Ways to Live This Out Daily speech • Speak truth even when it is costly (Ephesians 4:25). • Refuse gossip; steer conversations toward what builds up (Proverbs 16:28; Ephesians 4:29). Money matters • Pay bills on time, keep accurate records, avoid shady shortcuts (Romans 13:7-8). • When handling shared or organizational funds, insist on transparent, double-checked procedures. Workplace integrity • Give full effort, “not with eye-service” but sincerely (Colossians 3:23-24). • Own mistakes promptly; do not shift blame (Proverbs 28:13). Promises and commitments • Let “yes” mean yes; follow through on even small commitments (Matthew 5:37). • Show up when you said you would; finish tasks you volunteered for. Online presence • Post only what honors Christ and would withstand face-to-face scrutiny (Philippians 4:8). • Give proper credit for ideas, images, and quotes. Family interactions • Apologize quickly; model repentance at home (James 5:16). • Treat spouses, children, parents with consistent respect—behave the same in private as in public. Community life • Drive courteously, respect property lines, keep noise levels reasonable—little acts show big integrity. • Volunteer motives: serve because it is right, not for applause (Matthew 6:1-4). Conflict and reconciliation • Seek peace first (Romans 12:18). • Speak with gentleness; aim to win a brother, not an argument (Proverbs 15:1; Galatians 6:1). Connections to Other Scriptures • Romans 12:17 – “Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Consider what is good before all men.” • Proverbs 3:3-4 – “Let loving devotion and faithfulness never leave you… then you will find favor and high regard in the sight of God and man.” • Matthew 5:16 – “Let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” • Philippians 2:15 – “That you may be blameless and pure… shining as lights in the world.” Common Roadblocks and Encouragement • Fear of people’s opinions—remember we ultimately answer to God (Galatians 1:10). • Fatigue or busyness—integrity often shows in small, unseen choices; ask the Spirit for daily strength (Galatians 5:16). • Past failures—confess, make restitution where possible, and start fresh; God delights in restored integrity (1 John 1:9). A Closing Charge Integrity is not an accessory; it is the fabric of a life that glorifies Christ. With Scripture as our literal, sufficient guide and the Spirit empowering each step, we can consistently “do what is right, not only in the eyes of the Lord, but also in the eyes of men.” |
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