Day 91: Integrity vs. Dishonesty

Day 91: Integrity vs. Dishonesty

Scripture Reading: Proverbs 28:10–17

Key Verse:

“Whoever walks in integrity will be delivered, but he who is crooked in his ways will suddenly fall.”

— Proverbs 28:18 (ESV)

Reflection

The path of integrity is rarely the easiest road, but it is always the safest and most rewarding in the long run. In this portion of Proverbs, Solomon contrasts the lives of those who walk in truth and righteousness with those who choose deceit and corruption. The outcomes could not be more different.

Leading others astray brings judgment (v. 10).

There’s a weighty responsibility in leadership—your choices influence others. Solomon says if you cause the upright to stumble, you’ll fall into your own pit. It’s a sobering reminder: dishonest leadership may succeed temporarily, but it is ultimately self-defeating.

Integrity brings confidence and security (v. 10b).

Those who walk in blamelessness will inherit good. Not necessarily in material wealth, but in the kind of peace, legacy, and influence that can’t be bought. Integrity builds trust. And trust is the foundation of lasting leadership.

Money cannot hide guilt (v. 11).

The rich may think they’re wise, but true discernment belongs to the one who sees past the glitter of wealth. In a culture where money often defines success, Solomon reminds us: Character, not cash, reveals the state of a person’s soul.

Obedience leads to blessing; rebellion leads to ruin (vv. 13–14).

Those who hide sin will not prosper. But the one who confesses and turns from it? They find mercy. That’s gospel truth. Covering up sin might preserve your image, but it will bankrupt your soul. Transparency is hard, but it’s the only path to freedom.

A troubled conscience is a heavy burden (v. 17).

Whether guilty of injustice, abuse, or violence, the one who lives in deceit cannot find peace. There’s no rest for a soul that knows it’s in rebellion. Dishonesty always catches up eventually—in relationships, leadership, and before God.

This passage reminds us that leadership without integrity is dangerous, but leadership built on righteousness is unshakable. Dishonesty might build something quickly—but only integrity can make it last.

Word Study: Integrity (תֹּם, tom)

The Hebrew word tom means “completeness, wholeness, or moral innocence.” It describes a person whose life is consistent in public and private, aligned with God’s truth.

For leaders, tom is more than honesty—it’s living an integrated life, where what you say, what you do, and what you believe all match.

Challenge

Reflect on your leadership and personal walk.

1. Are there areas where you’re covering up instead of confessing?

2. Are you consistent in character even when no one is watching?

Write down one specific area where you want to grow in integrity this week, and take a small but real step to align your life with truth.

Leadership in Action

Consider how your integrity impacts those you lead.

• Are you setting an example of honesty, transparency, and godliness?

• Are you creating an environment where others can own mistakes without fear of rejection?

This week, choose one leadership moment where you’ll lead with radical honesty and humility—even if it’s hard. Show your team what integrity really looks like.

Prayer

Lord, help me to walk in integrity. Expose any hidden places in my heart that need to be brought into the light. Give me the courage to confess, the humility to repent, and the strength to lead with honesty. Let my life be whole and holy, shaped by Your Word and not by fear. I want to build something that lasts—for Your glory. In Jesus’ name, amen.