Emulating Christ in Our Careers: Part Six - Honesty and Integrity

In the journey to reflect Christ in our professional lives, we’ve explored the importance of serving others, expressing gratitude, using our gifts, and providing for our families. Now, as we consider what it truly means to work as Christians, we turn to the bedrock of our faith: honesty and integrity.

Imagine you’re at work, facing a moment of decision. Perhaps it’s a small thing—reporting hours on a time sheet, sharing credit for a project, or deciding how transparent to be with a client. These moments, though seemingly minor, are where honesty and integrity come into play. They’re not just about doing what’s right in the big, visible moments; they’re about making the right choices when no one is watching.

The Bible is clear on the importance of honesty. Colossians 3:23 (NIV) guides us, “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.” This verse challenges us to see our work as an offering to God, not just a task for our employer. In every action, big or small, we’re called to reflect our commitment to God.

But how does this play out in our day-to-day work? Think of the last time you had the opportunity to take a shortcut. Maybe no one would have noticed, and you could have saved time or effort. Proverbs 10:9 (NIV) reminds us, “Whoever walks in integrity walks securely, but whoever takes crooked paths will be found out.” Integrity isn’t just about avoiding consequences; it’s about living in a way that honors the values we claim to hold. When we choose the path of honesty, even when it’s harder, we walk securely, knowing we’re in line with God’s will.

Honesty isn’t only about avoiding deceit; it’s about being open and transparent in all our dealings. Picture a scenario where a colleague asks for feedback on a project. It’s tempting to give a vague, noncommittal response to avoid awkwardness. But honesty means speaking the truth with love, even when it’s uncomfortable. Proverbs 12:22 (NIV) says, “The Lord detests lying lips, but he delights in people who are trustworthy.” By being truthful, we build trust and foster a culture of integrity in our workplace.

Now, consider integrity. It’s easy to act with integrity when others are watching, but what about when no one is there to see? This is where our true character is revealed. Imagine working late on a project, knowing you could cut corners, and no one would ever know. But integrity means doing the right thing, even in solitude. It’s about staying true to your principles, driven by a commitment to God, not by the presence of others.

Jesus exemplified this unwavering integrity. Even in moments of great temptation or suffering, He remained true to His mission and values. When we emulate Christ, we’re not just following rules; we’re living out our faith in every action and decision.

As you navigate your career, think about the impact of your work ethic on those around you. Your commitment to honesty and integrity not only fulfills your responsibilities but also serves as a powerful testimony to your faith. Whether it’s in a meeting room, behind a desk, or out in the field, strive to reflect Christ’s character in every aspect of your work.

Let your actions, grounded in honesty and integrity, be an expression of your devotion to God. In doing so, you’ll find that your work becomes more than just a job—it becomes a living testimony to the One you serve.