ManofIntegrity

"Man of Integrity"

"Integrity from God's Point of View"

A note why I use Harley Graphics: My husband owns a Harley and I think he is pretty awesome most of the time. ;0)

Meaning: Steadfast adherence to a strict moral or ethical code. Soundness. Completeness;unity.

As I think about men in general I know there are just a few who hold the name integrity in their life. For to have integrity a man must have an ongoing living faith in Jesus Christ. I cannot see how a man can have integrity without the presence of God in his life.

As I read about complete I see a man who knows his goals, seeks to succeed, willing to stand up to trials, apply God's Word, provides for his family,loves his wife, loves his children, be a stable rock to lean upon, love for others, be ready to stand up for the weak in spirit, filled with laughter, able to weep, and one who see's life through the eyes of the Lord Jesus Christ.

In the years I have seen men not hold up to what God has called them too. And I see their family go through so much because of their selfish desires to please themselves. The question is: Where can a man go to get the best guidance needed to be the man God intends him to be?

First: The Word of God

"All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works." 2 Timothy 3:16-17

With God as a mans co-pilot how can he lose sight of what he is called to do?

Second: He must understand his calling as head of his home

In Genesis we are told: "Therefore, shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh." Genesis 2:24 Pretty strong words from our God. He told Adam that is what he must do as he took Eve as his gift from God. I think men don't like to hear this because it says to them, stop hanging on the apron strings and cleave to your wife. Who knows this may be the root of trouble in many marriages today.

In Ephesians we are given specific instructions for structure in our homes. "Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it; That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the Word," Ephesians 5:25-26 Because I am a woman I can see many men taking this to the extreme. You will ask me what do you mean? I have heard men state this and it deeply disturbs me. Example: "God put me as head of our home and you will do what I say, all of you." Can you see the sparks flying? This is not what God means at all. Actually, its pretty clear that he is saying: live up to what I instruct you as overseer of your home by my Son's example. Jesus didn't threaten submission, he didn't beat truth into those he ministered to.

Jesus was a person who many followed because of the love he had for them. Yes, he got upset in the temple but he had every right to show these people the misuse of his Father's house.

So we see a man of integrity has to be led too. As he endeavors to be head of his home he has taken on a lot of responsibility with his leadership. He must be the spriritual leader, must be ready to instruct, must be ready to forgive, must be ready for change, must be all that God has called him to be. After all in the future when he meets our Lord Jesus: he will held accountable for every action as a husband, father, child, and member of the household of faith.

A man of integrity is one of a kind. He is not a stand out in crowds, he does not ursurp his authority, he doesn't have to tell others who he has, he doesn't make demands, he is one who has complete confidence in how God would have him live his life.

Men: I say you can do all things through Christ who strengthens you. It is obvious it isn't an easy task to lead in your home but through Christ you can do it.

May our Father guide you daily and may he use you for the furtherance of the Gospel.

Father, I lift my husband and sons up to you knowing you have called them to lead out in faith. I pray for all men who love you to be guided by you daily and be living examples of integrity. Help those men who are struggling with their identity and show them the way. Be with all the families who worship you in spirit and truth. Now to you who is able to complete what you have started, I pray this in Jesus Name. AMEN

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