What steps can we take to ensure integrity in our spiritual lives? Setting the Scene: Acts 5:10—Integrity on Trial “ At once she fell down at his feet and breathed her last. When the young men came in, they found her dead and carried her out and buried her beside her husband.” (Acts 5:10) Ananias and Sapphira’s deception was exposed instantly. Their story shows that God records real events to underscore that He will not be mocked, and that integrity is non-negotiable for His people. Step 1: Acknowledge God Sees Everything • Hebrews 4:13—“Nothing in all creation is hidden from God’s sight.” • Proverbs 10:9—“He who walks in integrity walks securely.” • Let the certainty of God’s watchful eye guide every hidden thought and action. Step 2: Welcome the Holy Spirit’s Conviction • Acts 5:3 reveals Peter asking, “Why has Satan filled your heart to lie to the Holy Spirit?” • Daily invite the Spirit to search you (Psalm 139:23-24) and respond immediately to His prompting before compromise takes root. Step 3: Practice Honest, Humble Stewardship • Ananias and Sapphira pretended full generosity; the lie proved fatal. • Matthew 6:1-4—give “in secret,” seeking God’s approval, not applause. • Decide beforehand what to give, then follow through without embellishment (2 Corinthians 9:7). Step 4: Keep Short Accounts with God • Proverbs 28:13—“He who conceals his sins will not prosper, but whoever confesses and renounces them finds mercy.” • 1 John 1:9—confession restores fellowship instantly; delay only stiffens deception. Step 5: Walk in Transparent Community • James 5:16—“Confess your sins to one another…so that you may be healed.” • Invite trusted believers to ask hard questions; integrity thrives where light is welcomed (Ephesians 5:8-11). Step 6: Test Motives by Scripture Daily • Psalm 119:11—hide the Word in your heart to guard against sin. • 2 Corinthians 13:5—“Examine yourselves” with the mirror of Scripture, allowing it to expose mixed motives. Step 7: Live for Eternal, Not Immediate, Reward • Luke 12:2-3—every secret will be revealed; integrity now prevents shame later. • Colossians 3:23-24—serve “the Lord Christ,” knowing your ultimate commendation comes from Him. Putting It Into Practice • Start each morning with a brief prayer of surrender, inviting the Spirit to oversee your honesty. • Before any decision, ask, “Would this stand if exposed today?” • Review your stewardship monthly: income, giving, time, talents—ensure numbers match reality. • Schedule regular accountability conversations; choose people who love you enough to confront. • End each day with confession and gratitude, resetting your heart’s compass for tomorrow. Integrity safeguarded by these steps keeps our walk authentic, our witness credible, and our fellowship with God vibrant. |
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