Integrity

Integrity is a quality of heart by which an individual manifests and maintains a constant pattern of decision making which is rooted in the key principle that they will in no way shape or conform to any degree in any circumstance of situation deliberately compromise in their obedience and allegiance to the ways commands and leading of their God

Emeal Zwayne

There is a difference between pride and integrity. One is a positive character trait and the other is a sin.

But He gives a greater grace. Therefore it says, “GOD IS OPPOSED TO THE PROUD, BUT GIVES GRACE TO THE HUMBLE.” 

James 4;6

If we are walking in a spirit of pride, we are opposed to God’s will for our life.

All who fear the LORD will hate evil. Therefore, I hate pride and arrogance, corruption and perverse speech.

Proverbs 8:13

So since the Lord hates pride. Other people don’t like it on you too. You don’t look cool when you are boasting on yourself. False humility doesn’t look good either. We don’t fool anyone with it.

For if anyone thinks he is something, when he is nothing, he deceives himself.

Galatians 6:3

It’s better to look in the mirror and see what God sees when he looks at you. If you are in Christ, He sees Christ’s righteousness. If you are not, He sees a lifetime of sins. We are not as good as we think we are.

But when Christ comes into your life, He gives you a new heart and a new character. He transforms you to be more like Him.

Over time, we can become like him by making good godly decisions and the result is integrity. So you see pride and integrity are polar opposites. Walking in pride is the wrong path. Walking in humility leads to a change in heart which leads to integrity. When you have integrity, people give you respect. You don’t have to puff yourself up trying to get it.

We have to break up with pride though. Not everyone wants to do it. They have been in the boat with pride a long time.

Are you ready to kick pride to the curb?