“Better is the poor who walks in his integrity than one who is perverse in his lips, and is a fool” (Proverbs 19:1).
Some things are much more important than money, influence or power. Integrity is one of them.
The primary English definition for integrity is: the quality of being honest and having strong moral principles; moral uprightness. This definition accords well with the Hebrew word in our text: tôm — moral innocence (Strong’s).
Strong also uses the word simplicity to define our term. This is interesting, as simplicity contrasts with the term duplicity (deceitfulness, double dealing).
When it comes to our interactions with others are we simple? Is it true with us that, “What you see is what you get”? Are we forthright, honest, truthful with others? Or do we seek to gain advantage by dishonesty, flattery, deceit?
It is true that for a while, a man who is perverse in his lips can personally benefit from his duplicity. That is why we are warned against such individuals who are guilty of “flattering people to gain advantage” (Jude 16). Jude describes them as “sensual persons, who cause divisions, not having the Spirit.” Ultimately he is foolish. His sin will “find [him] out” (cf. Numbers 32:23).
Be “rich toward God” (cf. Luke 12:19). Walk in integrity!
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