Recently posted by “Money Talk News” were the results of a Gallup poll listing nine professions Americans note for having the most unethical people. The list included lobbyists, telemarketers, members of congress, car salespeople, state office holders, business executives, TV reporters, advertising practitioners, and newspaper reporters. When I initially saw the post I was drawn to take a look to see if ministers were listed. Why? Because a number of years ago I heard a man calling into a radio talk show state that all ministers are liars. Though we ought to be careful of painting all with the same brush, it is sad there is probably a lack of integrity among some no matter what the profession. The list noted above is due to how the practices of people in those professions have impacted others. Whatever conclusions were drawn were due to actions within those professions that created this climate of distrust.
Even Jesus confronted the lack of integrity among some of the leaders of that day. (i.e. Matthew 15:3-7; 23:2-4) Are we living what we profess to be? Beyond what we verbally claim, it is how we live that will cause the world around us to label us either as genuine or as a fraud. Even if what we believe is not accepted, living as we ought in the eyes of God, our integrity can still be noted! (i.e. 1 Peter 2:11-12)
Paul urged Titus. . .
“(7) Show yourself in all respects to be a model of good works, and in your teaching show integrity, dignity, (8) and sound speech that cannot be condemned, so that an opponent may be put to shame, having nothing evil to say about us.” (Titus 2:7-8 ESV)
And Paul urged Christians at Philippi. . .
“(14) Do all things without grumbling or disputing, (15) that you may be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world, (16) holding fast to the word of life, so that in the day of Christ I may be proud that I did not run in vain or labor in vain.” (Philippians 2:14-16 ESV)
What marks our life? We will all be an example of something whether it be bad or good. Therefore, whatever we do in life, may it be done to the glory of God. (i.e. 1 Corinthians 10:31; also note Colossians 3:17) Regardless of what people of the world think they need to do to get ahead, may we live as people of integrity so the profession of our words and our actions speak the same message!
Have a great day LIVING CONSISTENT WITH OUR CHRIST CONNECTION!
Carl
