Many times we are quick to judging people either in thoughts or speech when a tragedy or misfortune befalls them. As life is bound to test our integrity, either in big or small ways, in career, business, ministry, family, health, faith, finances etc. It can sometimes be a very devastating, heartbreaking or hopeless experience.
In Job’s case, his integrity test came in a manner where he had to prove that his affliction wasn’t an evidence of him being a wicked man. For others, it is refusing to conform to the demands of an oppressor or people challenging their moral standards thereby setting boundaries to maintain their self respect.
Again, Job had to hold on to his integrity, despite being charged with weakness and faint heartedness. Imagine, this was a man known as an encourager to all and sundry, who was also known to give suitable counsel and comfort in helping people out of their circumstances. Yet, his integrity was tested, depicting the test aims mainly for morality or righteousness
For some, it is a great challenge maintaining integrity financially, whilst others is morally. Whichever way we fall short of it, as we celebrate Easter, let’s reflect on the essence of Jesus’ model of integrity. In his case, his integrity test was like that of Job – to prove his innocence whilst he was stricken, to declare authority over the devil and his co-hosts, to liberate and give victory to the heirs of God from the veils of the enemy, and to present an open cheque to the many blessings in the inheritance of the heirs of God through his resurrection power(alleluia!!!)
The quality of our honesty and moral principles will surely be put to test. And except we anchor our life in Christ, we can’t succeed based on human strength or wisdom. For through Christ, we are able to maintain our self respect and prove that neither afflictions or trials can overpower us for we are overcomers and victorious in all ways.
Shalom 🕊️
Bimpe Lawal