Peaceful Acquisition

The concept of peaceful acquisition in the Bible is deeply rooted in the principles of wisdom, patience, and reliance on God's provision. The Scriptures often contrast the ways of the righteous with those of the wicked, emphasizing that the former seek to acquire possessions and achieve goals through peaceful and honest means.

Proverbs 16:8 states, "Better a little with righteousness than great gain with injustice." This verse highlights the value of acquiring wealth and possessions through righteous means rather than through deceit or violence. The Bible consistently teaches that true prosperity is not measured by material wealth but by the peace and righteousness that accompany it.

In the New Testament, Jesus teaches about the futility of anxious striving for material possessions. In Matthew 6:31-33 , He instructs, "Therefore do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the Gentiles strive after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added unto you." Here, Jesus emphasizes that peaceful acquisition is rooted in trusting God to provide for our needs as we prioritize His kingdom and righteousness.

The Apostle Paul also addresses the attitude of contentment and peaceful acquisition in Philippians 4:11-12 : "I am not saying this out of need, for I have learned to be content regardless of my circumstances. I know how to live humbly, and I know how to abound. I am accustomed to any and every situation—to being filled and being hungry, to having plenty and having need." Paul's contentment, regardless of his material circumstances, exemplifies a life of peaceful acquisition, where reliance on God's provision supersedes the pursuit of wealth.

Integrity

Integrity is a fundamental biblical principle that denotes a life of honesty, moral uprightness, and consistency in character. The Bible places a high value on integrity, often associating it with wisdom and favor from God.

Proverbs 11:3 declares, "The integrity of the upright guides them, but the perversity of the faithless destroys them." This verse underscores the guiding power of integrity in the life of a believer, contrasting it with the destructive nature of deceit and faithlessness.

The life of Job is a profound biblical example of integrity. Despite severe trials and suffering, Job maintained his integrity before God. In Job 2:3 , the Lord says to Satan, "Have you considered My servant Job? For there is no one on earth like him, a man who is blameless and upright, who fears God and shuns evil. And he still retains his integrity, even though you incited Me against him to ruin him without cause." Job's steadfastness in maintaining his integrity, even in the face of immense adversity, serves as a model for believers.

In the New Testament, the Apostle Paul exhorts believers to live lives of integrity. In 2 Corinthians 8:21 , he writes, "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." This reflects the biblical mandate for believers to uphold integrity in all aspects of life, ensuring that their actions align with their professed faith.

Integrity is also linked to the concept of being above reproach, as seen in the qualifications for church leaders. In Titus 1:7-8 , Paul instructs, "As God’s steward, an overseer must be above reproach—not self-absorbed, not quick-tempered, not given to drunkenness, not violent, not greedy for money. Instead, he must be hospitable, a lover of good, self-controlled, upright, holy, and disciplined." This passage highlights the importance of integrity in leadership, emphasizing that those who lead must exemplify the highest moral standards.

In summary, the Bible presents peaceful acquisition and integrity as intertwined virtues that reflect a life committed to righteousness, trust in God's provision, and moral uprightness. These principles guide believers in their interactions with others and in their personal walk with God, ensuring that their lives are marked by peace and integrity.