GodReflection: Power Words

Integrity oozes whole and wholesome. There is something pure about its sound.

I want to claim integrity as a word of power.

Let me illustrate with a rich and unforgettable moment.

It happened in a Tennessee airport.

I arrived one morning with coworker Dr. Ellis Long to catch a flight to our next appointment. We were recruiting missionary families for the Great Cities of South America.

What a welcome surprise to encounter our university colleague the late Dr. John Stevens, President of Abilene Christian University. That morning Dr. John—true to form—displayed his sense of humor.

I’ll never forget his answer to our breakfast question: “How do you deal with all of the criticism that comes your way as the Chief Executive Officer?”

Dr. John had the ready response on the tip of his tongue. “I just do what I judge to be right and let the heathen rage.”

I have often thought of his response as about the best definition of integrity I’ve heard.

I find integrity to be a goal as well as a lifestyle. I am never as successful at it as I would like to be.  I would like to think I get better at it in hopes of the time when my integrity will reach fullness in the eternal presence of Jesus.

Here is what I think.

It never fails. Two things that get me into trouble with the status quo are to read Scripture and to think. This has everything to do with integrity. As I attempt to live a life of integrity I see Scripture, reflection, and action as key.

Sure, I care what my family, friends, and colleagues think. However, I’ve reached an age when I care more about being right with God. I hope that was always a concern—yet with age it’s reached an intense focus.

Here is how I want to drink anew the nectar of integrity.

When I began this blog in September 2012, my stated purpose was to know God. I shared the fact that the first third of my life was spent learning, the second third of my life was spent doing, and now in the final third my focus is on being.

The method for my final lap is to read Scripture, to ponder, and to act. How I do that has everything to do with integrity.

Just as Dr. John used heathen in a humorous fashion, I too want to do what I think is right and let the heathen rage—even when the “heathen” are graced filled family, dear friends, and wonderful colleagues, all committed to live as followers of Jesus.

I want the power of integrity to grow into the very core of my soul.

Stay tuned.

Dr. Gary J. Sorrells – A GodReflection on the Power Word Integrity.

Gary@GodReflection.org     www.MakeYourVisionGoViral.com