Tuesday, February 17, 2009

Integrity, con't.

Good morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the coolish day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! When I stepped outside this morning, I noticed the moon is now down to half but still bright. It always seems like it shines brighter when the air is cool and dry.

Our yard and driveway are covered with oak leaves again, because the trees have not finished shedding, but with the wind blowing today, they should be cleared at least from the driveway! Speaking of leaves, the park is covered with leaves all over the parking area. When they had full staff, the first thing they did every morning, was blow all the leaves off the road. How things have changed!

Yesterday I was treated to a one hour massage courtesy of a gift card from the men in my life. What a treat! Soft music, dark room and strong fingers moving constantly over tired muscles. I should have gone right to bed, but, instead, had to drive home. Sigh.

We saw a bride dressed in white satin, with black sneakers, in the park the other day. The small bridal party was on the way to take photos and she was wise not to wear high heels in the grass. Quite a few weddings are held there during the year. It is a beautiful place, but the last wedding party we saw was right after a heavy rain, and the dresses were getting wet. That's the chance they have to take, though.

From the Promise Bible NLT:

I thought this was a good subject even though it is a repeat, because of all the corruption we read about daily it seems, in people in high positions who should know better.

What are the benefits of integrity?

Proverbs 11:3,5 Good people are guided by their honesty: treacherous people are destroyed by their dishonesty...The godly are directed by their honesty, the wicked fall beneath their load of sin.

Integrity keeps us from the trap of dishonesty and the destruction that can result.

Psalm 15:1-5 Who may worship in your sanctuary, Lord? Who may enter your presence on your holy hill? Those who lead blameless lives and do what is right, speaking the truth from sincere hearts. Those who refuse to slander others or harm their neighbors or speak evil of their friends. Those who despise persistent sinners, and honor the faithful followers of the Lord and keep their promises even when it hurts. Those who do not charge interest on the money they lend, and who refuse to accept bribes to testify against the innocent. Such people will stand firm forever.

Our character affects our ability to worship and enjoy fellowship with God. Worship is more acceptable to God and more meaningful to us when we honor the Lord in our daily conduct.

I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!

Love and hugs,
Amaryllis