Does the End Justify the Means?

Wednesday, February 15

“Does the End Justify the Means?”
By: Pastor Shane Beauvais

Integrity: Doing what is ethically and legally correct, upholding moral standards.
Although not exhaustive, these are some of the attributes of integrity. Those with integrity refrain from acting or speaking in a way that will mislead others. The display of true honesty, no matter the circumstance, fortifies the trust of others. Those who possess and practice such integrity impact their connections relationally and professionally.  
These are all great qualities. However, one area rarely discussed is how our definition of integrity can sometimes be skewed. Unfortunately, most of us have become completely blind to this reality. Not one of us is excluded. The professional workforce, personal and professional relationships, family and friends, and, yes, even the church!
The expression “the end justifies the means” has become our comfort blanket when true integrity is not practiced. This phrase is used to imply that any action is worthwhile as long as the intended result is achieved, regardless of whether the action might be viewed as unethical or morally wrong. Does this challenge you as it has me? Well, it should!
Our integrity is a direct definition of our heart. Through our integrity, our heart and our ideals are examined. How we move with integrity will always expose what we claim as fellow believers in Christ as merely an illusion if not authentic in practice.

Let that sink in.
Integrity is uncompromising; once it has been breached, it may be the most challenging quality to recover since confidence has been lost. Proverbs 10:9 reads, “Whoever walks in integrity walks securely, but whoever takes crooked paths will be found out.”

As Christians, we are transformed by learning about Jesus and His love for humanity. Many of us are eager to proclaim that we accept God’s word and His commands, but wouldn’t it be more evident if our integrity spoke for us? Be reminded of the words spoken to you this past Sunday. The closer someone gets to us, the better we should appear. We must not be people of duplicity but rather people of honest integrity in every area of our lives.