United Integrity

Today we are talking about integrity. This is a word that tends to get thrown around a lot so the meaning tends to get lost in the sauce. The dictionary defines integrity as

1. the quality of being honest and having strong moral principles; moral uprightness. “he is known to be a man of integrity”synonyms:honesty, uprightness, probity, rectitude, honor, honorableness, upstandingness, good character, principle(s), ethics, morals, righteousness, morality, nobility, high-mindedness, right-mindedness, noble-mindedness, virtue, decency, fairness, scrupulousness, sincerity, truthfulness, trustworthiness”I never doubted his integrity”

2. the state of being whole and undivided. “upholding territorial integrity and national sovereignty”synonyms:unity, unification, wholeness, coherence, cohesion, undividedness, togetherness, solidarity, coalition

For the purposes of our discussion, let’s stick with definition #2. When everything is said and done, we want our marriages to be whole and undivided. Situations and circumstances come up every day to put a wedge between us and our spouse. But we must persevere to remain united.

This is where most people fall short. Even though they are married, they are not united. Whether on how to pay bills, save money, discipline children or serve the Lord. While some of things may seem trivial and may not scream a need for integrity; they are all important in building a reliable and sure foundation for the marriage. This giving no room for outsiders to creep in and cause confusion. Yes even family members and friends can be outsiders that cause confusion. So it is imperative to be united with your spouse.

Ecclesiastical 4:9-12 reiterates the strength that is found in unity.

“Two are better than one; because they have a good reward for their labour. For if they fall, the one will lift up his fellow: but woe to him that is alone when he falleth; for he hath not another to help him up. Again, if two lie together, then they have heat: but how can one be warm alone? And if one prevail against him, two shall withstand him; and a threefold cord is not quickly broken.” ‭‭

Homework: take a close look at your relationship and see if you can find areas in which you all can become more united. Earnestly pray God gives you and your spouse the strength and wisdom to love in integrity to fortify your marriage.

*This concept of integrity is not just limited to romantic relationship. It applies to any and all relation ships. In order for the relationship to last, be effective and remain sustained, the participants must display integrity.