What Would You Do?

“The integrity of the upright guides them, but the crookedness of the treacherous will destroy them.” Proverbs 11:3 TLV

Every day, we are faced with decisions that require integrity. If we pay attention, our “moral compass” is consistently being tested and moving us in different directions. And, we live in a world where the fine line between doing right and minding our own business is slowly thinning down with each passing day. This weekend, I was caught up in that line. And, for a split second, I thought I was on television with John Quiñones hiding in a back room getting ready to pop out at any moment.

We took a trip to the mall this weekend. My boys held the doors for us and a few people behind us, including a tall, bearded gentleman in a red shirt. The man looked at my youngest, thanked him, & went into the coat section next to the exit. I turned towards my kids & watched this man grab a handful of men’s coats on hangers. I stared at him as he looked around to make sure no one was looking; and, when he saw his chance, he exited the doors with the unpurchased coats. I stood in complete shock as I belted out an “excuse me!” Then, I heard myself say it over again and louder. The store employee noticed, and I said, “That made just walked out with a bunch of jackets!”

My brother had made a comment about me “saying something” and it got me thinking. Why do we have to make a choice between doing what’s right and not doing anything? Why is getting involved in any situation viewed as being nosy or wrong? Integrity is not optional, neither is getting involved. Integrity is doing what’s right even when no one is looking – even when no one agrees. It’s not about whether people agree with your decisions; it’s about doing what’s right regardless of who agrees and who sees. Integrity is about having a boldness that pleases God even if it doesn’t please man. I don’t know what that man’s situation is, I don’t know if he’s good or evil and I’m not judging. All I know is that I have a responsibility to walk in integrity because it guides me to the right path. And, you? What would you do?

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of a new day! Thank You for the opportunities You give to do what is right in Your sight. Holy Spirit, guide me in every decision I make. I declare I walk in integrity and humility every day of my life. Let every decision I make be from a heart to please You regardless of what anyone might say or think. Thank You for strength and boldness to get involved where You want me to. This week, as I go about my work, ministry, and personal affairs, let my integrity guide me along the way. In Jesus’ name.