“For we take thought beforehand and aim to be honest and absolutely above suspicion, not only in the sight of the Lord but also in the sight of men.” 2 Cor 8:21 (Amplified)
Often, we hear the sentiment, “I do not care what people think of me… God knows my heart.” While it is true that God’s knowledge of our hearts is paramount, Our text this morning challenges us to go further. The Word of God calls us to live a life of integrity, not just before God, who knows our hearts, but also before the world, which observes our actions. We are called to have a good testimony before men, reflecting God’s truth in our lives.
As Paul also wrote in 2 Corinthians 3:2-3, “You are our epistle written in our hearts, known and read by all men; clearly you are an epistle of Christ, ministered by us, written not with ink but by the Spirit of the living God, not on tablets of stone but on tablets of flesh, that is, of the heart.“
We are indeed letters read by those around us. Our lives are a testimony of God’s work in us. Therefore, it is essential that our conduct be honourable among all.
1 Peter 2:12 says, “Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day He visits us.“
Let us then daily live in alignment with the truth of the Gospel, being mindful of our witness. Our integrity, honesty, and uprightness are not just for our sake or even just for God’s eyes, but for the sake of those who are watching, that they too might be drawn to the light of Christ, bringing glory to God.
Author
kay.alli@legalview.co.uk