A Life of Integrity

“I will walk with integrity of heart within my house” (Psalm 101:2).

Over the years I’ve come to see that the surest reflection of my devotion to Christ and the truest measure of my desire for personal holiness is manifested not in the public arena, but rather in the secret places of my life. In other words, who I am in private is the most accurate barometer of my devotion to Jesus Christ.

The above passage of scripture caught my attention earlier this week. Frankly, I can’t get it out of my mind. It speaks of David’s longing to be consistent in all areas of his life: public and private, open and secret. Consider the verse with me for a moment.

There are two words David used that speak of private or hidden places. The words “heart” and “house” suggest places that have restricted access. Only a select few know what’s going on in your home, and even fewer people (you and God) know what the condition of your heart is. Do you catch David’s intent? He’s making a commitment before the Lord that those who are close to him see integrity in all of his actions. And further, in referencing his heart he’s telling the Lord that he wants the most secret places of his life to be characterized by holiness. Wow, that speaks to me.

Be honest. We’re experts at putting on a show of how “spiritual” we are. I had a conversation with someone two weeks ago that was very one-sided. He did the talking. All he talked about was how active he was in spiritual pursuits. I’m certainly not in a position to judge him, nor would I. But at the same time I found myself wondering what his “heart” and “house” were like. You see, the sad truth is that far too many Christians are overtly spiritual at church yet secretly sinful at home and or in their hearts. These are painful things to consider, but true nonetheless.

The Bible tells us clearly that God judges the thoughts and intentions of the heart.  He’s primarily interested in holiness in the secret places of our lives. How are you doing in this regard? This is a tough question, but one I believe every Christian must answer if we’re to be honest in our relationship with Christ.

Here’s what I’m learning to do. As I spend time alone with the Lord, I ask Him to show me any areas in which my house and heart lack integrity. Then, just as David prayed, I ask the Lord to empower me live a life of holiness and integrity. It’s no easy task, yet one that God longs for us to undertake. How’s your house and heart today?