Integrity

This morning in my study group (Old Testament this year) we were discussing the life of Job, and what struck me the most during my reading of these chapters was his unwavering devotion to truth and righteousness, in its purity.  The Lord refers to Job as a "perfect" man and I believe he was referring to the state of his heart . . . his heart, mind, and soul being filled with perfect integrity . . .

"Till I die I will not remove mine integrity from me. 
My righteousness I hold fast, and will not let it go."

Job 27:5-6

I found this insight into the scripture from my little book of daily Old Testament scriptures and thoughts:

"Those who have integrity live with a whole and complete heart.  They have no secret places, no hypocrisy - what you see is what you get.  Such individuals strive daily to choose the right and choose it for the right reasons.  They have fused right actions with pure motives.  They act out of love rather than for outward appearance.  They show their family the same courtesies and respect they show acquaintances and strangers.  They uphold sacred truths regardless of circumstance.  This "integrity of heart" keeps them faithful and strong even when surrounded by a world of temptation and difficulty.  Like Job, no matter what, they persevere in righteousness and testimony.  People with integrity know that life is a process of growth.  They find the strength to change, because they "[love] that which is right" (D&C 124:15).  They learn from shortcomings, ask forgiveness, and cleave unwaveringly to truth."

It was an uplifting and spiritual conversation (as always) with my dear study group friends . . . I leave refreshed and rededicated every Thursday, especially on beautiful mornings like today when we have our discussions on Anita's deck surrounded by trees rustling in the breeze and the sound of the creek underneath.  Indeed, I am so blessed!

Daily thoughts

Each day I've been reading a scripture from the Old Testament followed by a short commentary.  I figure it's going to be about as close as I'll come to this year's study of the Old Testament.  I did take "Old Testament" in college and think once through the entire book will suffice until the children are out of the house ;-).  So, I thought every now and again this year it would be nice to share a scripture and thought that spoke to me, and may make a difference in your lives as well . . .

"And thou shalt remember all the ways which the Lord thy God led thee these forty years in the wilderness to humble thee, and to prove thee, to know what was in thine heart."

Deuteronomy 8:2

Commentary:  "This life is full of 'wilderness experiences' that test our mettle and provide opportunities to soften our hearts.  Indeed, our hearts are revealed in the crucibles of suffering.  We can become bitter or angry because of tribulations, or we can become stronger, more faithful and humble.  These divine tutorials are preparing us for life hereafter, even as they expand our souls in mortality.  We can develop the attributes of godliness in the furnace of affliction.  We can prove ourselves worthy of exaltation.  In life's journey, the Lord will not leave us comfortless.  As he did for ancient Israel, the Lord will lead and guide us.  If we stay on the path and strive for righteousness with all our hearts despite mistakes and shortcomings, he will not abandon us or forsake us.  His promise is sure."