What does the Bible say about integrity?
“The integrity of the upright shall guide them: but the perverseness of transgressors shall destroy them.” Proverbs 11:3 (KJV)
Integrity means wholeness — being the same person in private that you are in public, keeping your word, and living consistently with your values. The Bible places enormous value on this quality.
Proverbs 10:9 states, "He that walketh uprightly walketh surely." Integrity serves as a compass for decision-making and a foundation for a life well-lived.
God Values Integrity in the Heart
When God chose David as king, He told Samuel, "The LORD seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart" (1 Samuel 16:7). God is not impressed by outward religious performance; He examines the inner life.Integrity Means Being Truthful
Ephesians 4:25 instructs us to put away lying and speak every man truth with his neighbour. A person of integrity does not shade the truth for personal advantage.Integrity Means Keeping Commitments
Psalm 15 describes the person who may dwell in God's presence as one who sweareth to his own hurt and changeth not. Faithfulness to commitments, even when costly, is a hallmark of integrity.Integrity Means Consistency
James 1:8 warns against being double-minded. A person of integrity does not behave one way at church and another at work or at home."I know also, my God, that thou triest the heart, and hast pleasure in uprightness." — 1 Chronicles 29:17 (KJV)Living with integrity in a world that often rewards compromise takes courage. But the rewards are lasting: a clear conscience, trustworthy relationships, and alignment with God's truth.