Integrity's Audience

"Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, so now, not only as in my presence but much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure." Philippians 2:12-13 ESV

 "...As you have always obeyed, so now, not only as in my presence but much more in my absence,... " defines the audience of someone with integrity. We always have an audience - this is true. Whether it is in the knowledge and sight of other people, or simply in the knowledge and sight of God, there is really nothing hidden. Our God sees and knows all.

It is sad to see us sometimes, "playing" to the human audience, presuming that what we are allowing them to see is truly what is real. We all know about this and how it feels to please and be appreciated. That is fine and good in this Kingdom of ours. However, true integrity is when what is seen by others is in harmony with what is known and seen only by God. We all have private lives, and that is as it should be, but the private must be in harmony with the public or else we are lacking integrity and genuineness. The public does not have a right to know about my life. However, the public has every right to expect the private to be in harmony with the public, since I wear the name Christ.

To be faithful as a son of God, integrity is a must. To be effective as a servant of the Most High, consistency is essential. Two passages of scripture come to mind.

"Remember your leaders, those who spoke to you the word of God. Consider the outcome of their way of life, and imitate their faith. Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever." Hebrews 13:7-8 ESV. 

The phrase, "Jesus Christ is the same...." which we use for just about everything, in its core, means that Jesus Christ is always the same - He is consistent in all He is and all He does. This is true integrity!

And "Bondservants, obey in everything those who are your earthly masters, not by way of eye-service, as people-pleasers, but with sincerity of heart, fearing the Lord. Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ." Colossians 3:22-24 ESV 

Our audience is the Lord, whether we are in public or not. Integrity in heart is always consistent, always the same regardless of who we think is with us. He never leaves us nor forsakes us. So in His presence, in His abounding love and His lavished grace, we are empowered to be as He is in this world. 1 John 4:17. Thank you Lord for your instructions, your love and your empowerment in grace. We follow.