As grandparents, we all want our grandchildren to develop the character trait of integrity. When our grandchildren have integrity they will be successful in all of life’s relationships because they are genuine--the same in public and private life.

Integrity is the possession of high moral values or professional standards. It is to be sound, complete, and undivided in one’s thoughts, works, and actions all agreeing with each other.

Integrity is essential in a growing relationship with the Lord Jesus who is our perfect model of integrity. One of the unique things about God is that He knows us inside and out. We cannot get away with hiding anything from Him. Cover-ups did not work for Adam and Eve back in the Garden of Eden, and they certainly do not work for us today. One of the things Jesus hates most is hypocrisy, professing beliefs, feelings, or virtues that one does not truly hold or possess.

Integrity is necessary for relationships to be strong in school, business, and in our personal lives. It is one of the most highly valued character qualities. We want people to be honest and open with us. When integrity is lacking, people say one thing and do something else, relationships fall apart, trust is broken, and people hurt one another.

“People often fail to practice integrity because their self-centeredness makes them resistant to any reality or set of morals other than what is expedient for their own selfish gain.”¹ Cheating in school and lying are common areas with which our grandchildren are tempted, even at an early age. We read in Psalm 34, “If we want to live a life that is long and good, then we are to watch our tongues and keep our lips from lying.” Grandparents can teach integrity by encouraging their grandchildren to think before they speak, not telling lies, and by modeling what they say they will do.

When integrity grows, relationships grow healthier; they don’t seek to deceive others, and are less likely to be deceived themselves. They are honest with one another and focus more on what God considers right, rather than the current popular opinion. They look to Jesus as the model of perfect integrity.

Life can be complicated enough by having to deal with people who are two-faced. Integrity brings refreshing simplicity into our life. Let’s encourage our grandchildren about the importance of integrity and pray for them to exhibit integrity.

Suggested things to say to our grandchildren:

• “I admire your integrity.”

• “What is the right way to do this?”

• “Thanks for being honest with me.”

• “What would Jesus you to do in this situation?”

• “Say clearly what you mean.”

• “Don’t spread gossip or rumors.”

• “Always tell the truth.”

Prayer

Dear Lord, I pray my grandchildren will;

• Have thoughts, words, and actions to be in agreement.

• Be “real” in all their relationships.

• Focus on the truth and recognize the deception of the world.

• Do the right thing, maintaining high standards of integrity.

• Practice integrity in the small as well as large things.

• Learn that tell and living the truth is the path that leads to a blessed life.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

© Lillian Penner 2011

¹ Norm Anderson, 12 Seeds for Successful Relationships, ( Minneapolis, MN, 2004) p. 47. These thoughts have been adapted from 12 Seeds for Successful Relationships by Norm Anderson and used by his permission. He writes, “Most every success in life involves the presence or growth of one or more of these seeds.” You may purchase this book at www.12 seeds.com.

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