January 27th

Job 30:1-31:40

Job continued to defend his integrity against the claims of his misguided friends, who believed that his suffering was a consequence of some unconfessed sin in his life. “Does God not see everything I do?” Job asked. “He knows every step I take. Let God judge me on the scales of justice, for He knows my integrity” (31:1, 4-6).

Though Job understood that all people are born into sin and that no one is perfect, except for God, he also lived, as Paul stated, “with a 
clear conscience before God and men” (Acts 24:16). So then, taking Job’s lead, let’s talk about integrity. What is it?

Integrity comes from the word “integer,” meaning “whole.” Thus, integrity has to do with wholeness or purity. A biblical phrase for integrity is to be “above reproach.” A reproach is something shameful that could be revealed about you. Thus, to be above reproach means that nothing shameful could be brought against you, to defame your name or reputation.

Eric Liddell, the celebrated Scottish athlete and Olympic competitor, described living above reproach as being “without wax.” Ancient potters sometimes made the mistake of overheating their clay pots, causing them to dry out too quickly and develop cracks. To cover up their mistakes, they would apply wax over the cracks and sell their pots at full price. However, when the pots were used, the truth was soon revealed; the wax fell off and uncovered the cracks. Thus, it was known that the potter who sold pots like that was deceitful and lacked integrity.

All of us make mistakes, but oftentimes we cover them up with lies or masks. It is best if we live our lives without wax, in humility, sincerity, and genuine integrity.

Daily Reflection

Are you living your life without wax, above reproach? Or are there things about you that, if uncovered, would shame your name and reputation, or worse, shame the name of Christ?

Is having integrity the same as being sinless or perfect? Explain.

What are some steps you can take to develop integrity in your life?

Here’s a sobering thought. What if you were to die today and tomorrow your loved ones had to dig through all of your belongings, your journals, photos, music, videos, files, phone, books, etc. Would they find anything that would shame their memories of you? Or would they find a life of integrity? Live without wax.

“He who walks in integrity walks securely, but he who perverts his ways will be found out” (Proverbs 10:9).

BiAY.org | Day 27 — 338 Days to Go