It's Not Too Late...
to Show Up and Speak Up (Part 4)
December 5-9, 2005

As surely as God lives ... as long as I have life within me, the breath of God in my nostrils, my lips will not speak wickedness, and my tongue will utter no deceit. ... Till I die, I will not deny my integrity. I will maintain my righteousness and never let go of it; my conscience will not reproach me as long as I live.

Job 27:2-6 (NIV)

The thought that it is never too late to break an old habit or to begin a new adventure fills us with hope and with anticipation that we can get a new start. This week's study will focus on the truth that it is not too late to develop your character - the moral compass of your life that reaches into everything you think and do, making clear what is right and giving you the will to do it, regardless of the cost. The basis of your character must be integrity, meaning that your life is fully integrated, avoiding any compartments where God isn't involved. This is fundamental to our Christian beliefs: that Jesus is Lord over every aspect of your life, including your thoughts, your finances, and your business dealings. Integrity starts with looking inside yourself, and presents tests of conviction, courage, and courtesy.

KEYS TO LIVING A LIFE OF INTEGRITY

MONDAY

DEVELOP A MATURE CHRISTIAN LIFE SO THAT OTHERS MAY SEE CHRIST IN YOU.
[Your Objective: To radiate the relationship that you have with Christ even as Christ exemplifies His oneness with the Father.]

Integrity is about character. Character encompasses more than beliefs and opinions. It denotes the core values and commitments that define a person and ultimately shape the person's life. We live out of our character regardless of the stated beliefs, opinions or values that we proclaim. Character flows from the soul of the person. Integrity refers to the consistency of character that matches words and actions, vision and choices, values and behaviors. It is life lived with consistency. Character refers to those internal core values that shape all that a person does.

A life lived with integrity is one in which all aspects of a person are fully integrated; it is a holistic life. In mathematics an integer is a whole number that cannot be divided into parts which are themselves whole numbers. Integrity is like that. It is that coherence of character that presents a single face to the world: "What you see is what you get."

The goal is for all of them to become one heart and mind - Just as you, Father, are in me and I in you, So they might be one heart and mind with us. Then the world might believe that you, in fact, sent me.

John 17:21 (MSG)

  • According to this verse, what should be the goal of every Christian?
  • Why is it important for others to see a godly character in us?

I in them and you in me. Then they'll be mature in this oneness, And give the godless world evidence That you've sent me and loved them In the same way you've loved me.

John 17:23 (MSG)

  • How do we develop oneness with the Father?
  • What does the close relationship show?
  • What will be the result?

Evangelism (Mission) - Your mission is a continuation of Jesus' mission on earth. Jesus called you not only to come to him, but also to show others the way by the testimony of your life. Your life may be the only witness that someone sees.

TUESDAY

KNOW WHAT'S RIGHT AHEAD OF TIME. THIS IS THE TEST OF CONVICTION.
[Your Objective: Look at the way that leads to Christ before stepping ahead.]

How does the Lord speak according to Isaiah 45:19?

  • What point does Isaiah make when saying the Lord does not speak in secret?
  • What should guide us when we are confused about what is right?

Psalm 119:130 assures the reader of what characteristics of the Word of God?

  • Why is it wise to know God's Word well?
  • How might someone use the Bible to walk toward Christ? How do you use it?

Since a few parts of the Bible are not entirely clear, how can we use the Bible as a guide?

What does the psalmist decide after he thinks about his life in Psalm 119:59?

  • Why is it important when making any decision to follow God's rules?
  • What are some benefits of having God's Word as a guide in our lives?
  • Does it make life easier?

Ministry - God gives each of us gifts to use to serve others. We must know His Word and decide to do the right thing and serve lovingly. It is never too late to start doing what is right. Is God the ruler over all parts of your life, including your work, relationships, finances, and thoughts? Which area of your life is most difficult to let God in, and why? What is one segment of your life God has put on your heart to consider consulting with Him for guidance?

WEDNESDAY

DO WHAT'S RIGHT EVERY TIME. THIS IS THE TEST OF COURAGE.
[Your Objective: Recognize having courage to do what is right is God's will.]

In Psalm 106:3, who are blessed?

  • Why is it easier to "know" what is right than to "do" what is right?
  • What are some of the everyday battles people face when trying to do the right thing in life?

According to Proverbs 10:9, what will happen if you are dishonest?

  • If Christians are to show others the Word through our actions, what happens if others see us being dishonest?
  • When someone seems to be getting away with ungodly decisions on earth, what do we as Christians know about what is really happening?
  • How might someone gather courage to do the right thing?
  • Why might it be helpful to focus on the bigness and greatness of God?

Discipleship (Maturity) - God's plan is for us to face our shortcomings and take steps to change. By doing this we show our maturity and are a role model to others. God calls us to live our faith by doing the right thing, not just knowing the right things to do: action is necessary. When you review your life, what items do you think could use some polishing to stand up to God's interpretation of "the right thing to do"? Pray for courage to begin doing the right thing.

THURSDAY

BE GRACIOUS ALL THE TIME THIS IS THE TEST COURTESY.
[Your Objective: Develop Christ-centered courtesy in your life.]

Toward whom are we to grow according to Ephesians 4:15?

  • What is the result of growing in everyway toward Christ?
  • How does speaking the truth in love help?
  • What does Paul mean when he calls the Lord Jesus "the head"?

In 1 Peter 2:19-20, what is God's reaction when we patiently endure unfair treatment?

  • What are some of the biggest challenges to behaving kindly when we are mistreated?
  • The Bible says we get no credit for patient endurance when we are mistreated for wrongdoing.
  • In that situation, how should we behave?

Worship (Magnification) - Worship is to adore God. We worship by developing graciousness and courtesy because Christ, toward whom we grow in every way, is our model in this, and we adore His ways. What moves you to being gracious as you think of Christ? What practical steps can you take toward being gracious when you feel things are not fair?

FRIDAY

PERSONAL APPLICATION AND COMMITMENT:
[Your Objective: Realize what God is asking you to do in order to increase your integrity and commit to taking the first steps.]

Jesus makes no promises about what will happen in your life if you do what is right, but Jesus does promise to walk with you at all times. Begin by praying together; asking God to reveal what is right and giving you the courage to do it, living only for His pleasure. Discuss with the others in your group which of the above three tests is most relevant for you at this time. What is God telling you is most important for you now: to know what is right, to do what is right, or to be gracious all the time? With the other group members' help, determine what steps you need to take to increase your integrity and make a commitment to take at least one of those steps before your next meeting.