A Man of Integrity

Proverbs 31 is known for its description of the virtuous woman. Job 31 provides a similar description for the man. It describes what a man of integrity looks like. Integrity is an uprightness of character that is displayed in every area of life. It is complete and consistent, not selective and sporadic. It is important for men to have integrity. This chapter shows what this means.

A Covenant Made

• The first thing mentioned in this chapter is that Job made a covenant (Job 31:1) – it was specifically about avoiding lust, but this covenant would apply to all matters of one’s integrity
• Certain things are necessary in order to make and keep a covenant
  • Understanding – know the difference between right and wrong; this means we must know God’s word (Psalm 119:11)
  • Decision – God allows us to make choices (Joshua 24:15); once we know what is right, we must choose to do it
  • Long-term commitment – integrity is not a trend or fad; faithfulness must last a lifetime (Revelation 2:10)
  • Diligent execution – we are promising to DO something, not promising and turning back (Luke 9:62)

Characteristics

• A man of integrity is going to be blameless (Job 31:7-8) – this will be seen in various ways
• Purity (Job 31:1, 9-11) – begins with the heart and what he dwells on (Matthew 5:27-28); avoid unnecessary and dangerous situations (Proverbs 5:8); one sin can change everything
• Honesty (Job 31:5-6) – we are to speak truth to all (Ephesians 4:25); in our dealings with others, we must not take advantage of them or be deceptive (2 Corinthians 8:20-21)
• Fairness (Job 31:13-15) – not to think of ourselves more highly than we ought to (Romans 12:3); all are made in God’s image (Genesis 1:27); all are equal before Him (Galatians 3:28)
• Benevolence (Job 31:16-17, 19-20) – seek to do good (Galatians 6:10); use the fruit of your labor (Ephesians 4:28); help those who may never be able to repay you (Luke 14:12-14)
• Humility (Job 31:25) – our wealth (if blessed with it) does not define who we are (Luke 12:15); remember your place before God (Psalm 8:3-4 – written by David, who was a wealthy man)

What He Keeps Himself From

• Not only will a man of integrity have certain characteristics, he will also avoid certain things
• Trusting in riches (Job 31:24) – Job was wealthy; being wealthy is not wrong, but we are not to trust in riches (1 Timothy 6:17); trust in God instead
• Rejoicing over the calamity of others (Job 31:29-30) – we should desire good for others (Philippians 2:4), even our enemies (Matthew 5:43-45); perhaps they could have a change of heart (2 Timothy 2:24-26)
• Taking advantage of others (Job 31:38-39) – when able, we pay for what we receive (2 Thessalonians 3:8-9); act with love; love does not seek its own (1 Corinthians 13:5)

Conclusion

• A man of integrity will make a covenant to be such – he will do what is right and avoid doing what is wrong
• Let us make a commitment to follow this example