Integrity and motives are central themes in the Bible, reflecting the heart's condition and the authenticity of one's faith and actions. The Scriptures emphasize the importance of aligning one's inner intentions with outward actions, underscoring that God values the purity of heart and the sincerity of motives.

Integrity in the Bible

Integrity is often associated with honesty, moral uprightness, and consistency in character. The Bible presents integrity as a hallmark of a righteous life, one that is pleasing to God. In the Old Testament, Job is a quintessential example of integrity. Despite severe trials, Job maintains his integrity, refusing to curse God or abandon his faith. Job 2:3 states, "Then the LORD said to Satan, 'Have you considered My servant Job? For there is no one on earth like him, a man who is blameless and upright, who fears God and shuns evil. And he still retains his integrity, even though you incited Me against him to ruin him without cause.'"

Proverbs frequently extols the virtues of integrity, contrasting it with the fate of the wicked. Proverbs 11:3 declares, "The integrity of the upright guides them, but the perversity of the faithless destroys them." This verse highlights that integrity serves as a guiding principle for the righteous, leading them in paths of wisdom and safety.

In the New Testament, integrity is embodied in the life and teachings of Jesus Christ. Jesus consistently demonstrated integrity, aligning His actions with His teachings and fulfilling the will of the Father. His life serves as the ultimate model for believers, calling them to live with integrity in all aspects of life.

Motives in the Bible

Motives pertain to the reasons or intentions behind one's actions. The Bible teaches that God examines the heart, discerning the true motives behind human behavior. In 1 Samuel 16:7 , the LORD tells Samuel, "Do not consider his appearance or height, for I have rejected him. The LORD does not see as man does. For man sees the outward appearance, but the LORD sees the heart." This passage underscores that God prioritizes the heart's condition over external appearances.

The New Testament further elaborates on the importance of pure motives. In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus addresses the motives behind religious practices such as giving, praying, and fasting. In Matthew 6:1 , He warns, "Be careful not to perform your righteous acts before men to be seen by them. If you do, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven." Here, Jesus emphasizes that acts of righteousness should be motivated by a desire to honor God rather than seeking human approval.

The Apostle Paul also speaks to the issue of motives in his letters. In 1 Corinthians 4:5 , he writes, "Therefore judge nothing before the appointed time; wait until the Lord comes. He will bring to light what is hidden in darkness and will expose the motives of men's hearts. At that time each will receive his praise from God." Paul reminds believers that God will ultimately reveal and judge the true motives of every heart.

Living with Integrity and Pure Motives

The Bible calls believers to live with integrity and pure motives, reflecting the character of God in their daily lives. This involves a commitment to truth, honesty, and moral uprightness, as well as a sincere desire to please God in all things. The pursuit of integrity and pure motives is a lifelong journey, empowered by the Holy Spirit and grounded in a relationship with Jesus Christ. Through prayer, study of the Scriptures, and fellowship with other believers, Christians are encouraged to cultivate a heart that seeks to honor God above all else.