Integrity - Strengthening Your Stakes

Two weeks ago I preached on Steps to higher level living according
to Isaiah 54.

1. Enlarge Territory (Vision)
2. Enlarge your Tent ( believe theres more in you than you see)
3. Lengthen your Cords (relationships)
4. Strengthen your stakes (Hold to absolute Truth)

George Gallup in a poll says the #1 cause of stress in our lives today is not the lack of money, the breaking down of relationships, but the incongruities in life. (inconsistency)

We are living in a world that there is no stability in marriage, relationship, jobs, health, faith, etc.... Why?

* Because we keep moving our stakes.
* When you do this you lose stability, you gain stress.

So if you are really serious about living a life of security and stability, you really need to strengthen (and deepen) your stakes.

Strengthening your stakes is what God calls integrity.

Integrity is the concept of consistency of actions, values, principles and expectations,

Its saying what you believe and living what you say.

Job 2: 3, 9-10 Job is a man of Integrity is one who fears God and shuns evil. He holds fast to his integrity,

Fears God
Fear = reverence (a deep respect for)
God = Righteousness (right Living)

Shuns Evil
Shun = Avoid
Evil = Wrong

A Man of Integrity has a deep respect for right living and avoids wrong things. 

Job 27:5 I will not deny my integrity. I will maintain my righteousness (right living) and never let go of it.

* Do YOU you have a Deep Respect for right living?
* Do YOU avoid all kinds of wrong living?

Where am I getting my values? 
* World (T.V) or God

The first step towards Living a Life of Integrity is quit listening to the world and start listening to God.

1 Timothy 4:16 Keep a close watch on how you live and on your teaching. Stay true to what is right for the sake of your own salvation and the salvation of those who hear you.

Lack of Integrity could cost you salvation (yours and those around you).