The word integrity is now on almost every politicians’ lips. Sajid Javid, when resigning as Health Secretary said that the British people “rightly expect integrity from their Government”, while Justice Minister Victoria Atkins in her resignation cited concerns over "integrity, decency and respect" within the government.
But what exactly is it?
More often it is defined by what it’s against – corruption, deceit, duplicity, lies – as much as what it’s for.
In essence, Integrity is the consistent harmony of convictions and conduct, meaning we are trustworthy, honest and dependable, and our character is above reproach. Also having an untarnish moral character both publically and when noone else is around.
A big ask you may say! We can all slip from the standards we know we should be upolding, but if you have integrity you will value honesty and openness, so will take responsibility and accountability for your actions, good and bad. It will not be all about making excuses and trying to protect the self.
The Bible talks a lot about integrity and it’s importance The Bible has much to say about integrity, honesty, and living a blameless life. It speaks of sincerity, loyalty, obedience, character, and maintaining consistency under pressure.
Billy Graham once said “Integrity is the glue that holds our way of life together. What our young people want to see in their elders is integrity, honesty, truthfulness, and faith. What they hate most of all is hypocrisy and phoniness…Let them see us doing what we would like them to do.”
That seems like a good place to start.