Daniel is one of the few leaders in the Bible where you will find nothing negative written about him. He was just as human as all the other prophets, priests, and kings, but his character and convictions helped him rise above any scandals, and he is a great example of integrity. The book of Daniel is so much more than stories about fiery furnaces, lions’ dens, and interpreting dreams—it’s about the character and integrity of an individual put on display as an example for us to follow.
Here are two verses that summarize Daniel’s life:
Daniel 1:8, 2:48 (NIV) But Daniel resolved not to defile himself with the royal food and wine… Then the king placed Daniel in a high position and lavished many gifts on him. He made him ruler over the entire province of Babylon and placed him in charge of all its wise men.
A person of integrity is a powerful influence for God. Integrity doesn’t guarantee you a life free from fiery furnaces and lions’ dens, but it does provide a freedom of not having to live with regrets.
Consider a few truths about integrity:
The actions of integrity speak louder than words.
Anybody can say they have integrity, but it’s your actions that are the real indicator. I was cut off in traffic the other day, and when the car swerved in front of me and then abruptly slowed down, there was a bumper sticker that said, “Real men love Jesus” and a “fish” symbol that represents Christians was on the trunk. Sorry, but his driving didn’t make me think of Jesus!
Proverbs 21:3 (MSG) Clean living before God and justice with our neighbors mean far more to God than religious performance.
Integrity helps your reputation grow in value.
Proverbs 22:1 (NLT) Choose a good reputation over great riches; being held in high esteem is better than silver or gold.
Integrity strengthens your relationships.
It’s hard to be friends with an untrustworthy person—someone whose integrity is flawed and questionable!
1 Timothy 3:7 (NIV) He must also have a good reputation with outsiders, so that he will not fall into disgrace and into the devil’s trap.
Billy Graham once said, “Integrity is the glue that holds our way of life together. We must constantly strive to keep our integrity intact. When wealth is lost, nothing is lost; when health is lost, something is lost; when integrity is lost, all is lost.”
