FEBRUARY 21 - When Integrity Gets Tested
3-Year-Bible Reading: Proverbs 11:3–4; Acts 21–22
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“The integrity of the upright guides them, but the crookedness of the treacherous destroys them. Riches do not profit in the day of wrath, but righteousness delivers from death.” — Proverbs 11:3–4 (ESV)
“Paul replied, ‘I did not know, brothers, that he was the high priest; for it is written, “You shall not speak evil of a ruler of your people.”’” — Acts 23:5 (ESV)
“And he said, ‘The God of our fathers appointed you to know his will, to see the Righteous One and to hear a voice from his mouth.’” — Acts 22:14 (ESV)
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Have you ever been in a situation where doing the right thing felt costly? Like telling the truth when lying would have saved you from trouble, or standing up for someone when staying silent would have been easier? That’s the tension in Proverbs 11—integrity guides us, but dishonesty leads to destruction. Paul’s story in Acts 21–22 shows what this looks like in real life. Even while facing danger and misunderstandings, he stuck to his mission and respected authority—even those against him. Why? Because Paul knew he had been appointed by God for a purpose (Acts 22:14). For us, integrity isn’t just about rules; it’s about living like we truly believe God has called us to something bigger.
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THINK ABOUT IT
1. Integrity Over Convenience: When life gets tough, do you choose the easy way out or stay true to what’s right? Why does integrity matter even when no one else sees?
2. Respect Amid Opposition: Paul respected authority even when the leaders opposed him. How can you show respect and stay Christlike when people misunderstand or criticize your faith?
3. Living on Mission: If God has called you—like He did Paul—to know His will and share His truth, what changes would you make in how you live today?
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BOTTOM LINE
True integrity comes from knowing God’s purpose for your life and living it out—even when it’s hard.
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PRAYER
Heavenly Father, thank You for calling me to live with purpose and integrity. Help me to choose what is right over what is easy, to stay respectful even when things get tough, and to trust Your plan for my life. Strengthen my faith so I can live boldly for You every day. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
