Yesterday, I shared with you four thoughts proving that Paul was a great role model when it comes to this issue of integrity. Here is a final thought about Paul.

5. Integrity enables partnership or allows you to leave a good name. 

President Harry Truman used to say: “Fame is a vapor, popularity an accident, riches take wings, those who cheer today may curse tomorrow, only one thing endures – character.” 

Charles Spurgeon wrote, “A good character is the best tombstone. Those who loved you, and were helped by you, will remember you when forget-me-nots are withered. Carve your name on hearts, and not on marble.”  

In ancient China, the people desired security from the barbaric hordes to the north; so they built the great Chinese wall. It was so high they knew no one could climb over it and so thick that nothing could break it down. They settled back to enjoy their security. During the first hundred years of the wall’s existence, China was invaded three times. Not once did the barbaric hordes break down the wall or climb over the top. Each time they bribed a gatekeeper and then marched right through the gates. The Chinese were so busy relying upon the walls of stone that they forgot to teach integrity to their children.

Advance the cause of Christ always knowing that others are watching. Even King Solomon, in all of his glory and riches, understood that a good name is better than anything else in this world. How is your name? A person of integrity can always have a “short memory,” for they never have to remember what they said yesterday.