How can you prioritize integrity over material gain in daily decisions? Rooted in Proverbs 22:1 “A good name is more desirable than great riches; favor is better than silver and gold.” God openly states that character is worth more than anything money can buy. A reputation built on honesty stands as a testimony to His truth, and His favor carries eternal weight. Heaven’s Valuation System • God measures success by faithfulness, not net worth. • Riches fade; a trustworthy name carries on through generations. • The Lord’s favor secures blessings no bank account can match. Daily Decisions That Guard a Good Name • Return excess change or incorrect refunds immediately, even if unnoticed. • Disclose mistakes at work rather than hiding them to protect profits. • Keep promises to clients, family, and neighbors, even when it costs time or money. • Refuse under-the-table deals, padded expense reports, or gray-area tax claims. • Credit co-workers for shared ideas instead of claiming them for personal gain. • Choose products and services based on ethical sourcing, not just price. • Speak truthfully in advertising, social media, and personal conversation. Scripture’s Reinforcements • Proverbs 10:9 — “He who walks in integrity walks securely, but he who perverts his ways will be found out.” • Luke 16:10 — “Whoever is faithful with very little will also be faithful with much, and whoever is dishonest with very little will also be dishonest with much.” • 1 Timothy 6:6-10 — “Godliness with contentment is great gain… For the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil; by craving it, some have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many sorrows.” • Matthew 6:33 — “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added unto you.” • Proverbs 11:3 — “The integrity of the upright guides them, but the perversity of the faithless destroys them.” Concrete Practices for Every Day • Begin each morning by reading or reciting Proverbs 22:1 to set priorities. • Memorize one integrity verse each week to keep truth on the tongue. • Write a personal conviction statement: “My name in Christ is worth more than any profit.” • Pre-decide “no” to dishonest shortcuts before the pressure comes. • Invite a trusted friend to ask regularly about financial and moral choices. • Celebrate acts of honesty—both your own and others’—to reinforce righteous norms. • Give generously; loosening the grip on money weakens greed’s pull. Treasures That Outlast Paychecks • A clear conscience provides restful sleep and joyful worship. • Consistent integrity earns trust from family, co-workers, and the watching world. • God’s favor opens doors that money cannot unlock. • A legacy of righteousness encourages future generations to walk the same path. |
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