Integrity
Whoever walks in integrity walks securely, but he who makes his ways crooked will be found out. – Proverbs 10:9
Have you ever thought you could “get away” with something? Maybe you didn’t report that income on your taxes, or quietly sabotaged the reputation of a person you disliked. Perhaps you knew you owed more money at the register, but let the cashier’s mistake slide because it came out in your favor. Maybe you didn’t do any of these things, but the Bible does make it clear that we have all sinned; each of us have compromised our integrity at some point, and most of us will end up doing so again before we die. Even as believers we still stray from the straight paths the Lord prepares for us (Proverbs 3:6).
The question is not whether or not a believer will sin, but what our response to the Holy Spirit’s conviction will be. When confronted with our sin, do we take responsibility for our actions and ask God to forgive us and restore us to His fellowship? Do we instead rationalize our actions, focusing on the sins of others that are either more numerous or more egregious? Perhaps we even begin to feel entitled to engage in certain sins, telling ourselves that we have earned the right to do so. We might think our impact on God’s Kingdom is such that He will overlook it, or that it’s not a big deal.
This is dangerous thinking for two reasons. First, it calls into question whether or not our conversion experience was genuine. Second, whether we are truly redeemed or not, it ends up destroying our witness and the witnesses of those associated with us when our sin is ultimately brought to light. In today’s modern age, even sins taken to the grave can still be found out after the fact.
So what is the best plan to counter this? It’s simple, but it isn’t easy. Walk in integrity. Hold it dear, and don’t ever compromise it, even in the smallest of ways. If you do so, Proverbs says you will “walk securely.” If not, your witness, your legacy, and even your very eternity could be in jeopardy.
Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, so now, not only as in my presence but much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. – Philippians 2:12
Stephen Nichols
Director of Communications
STORIES FROM THE HOME
Staying Busy
The PAYH young men always have something to do. Whether they are working in the garden or having a super bowl party, we strive to keep them occupied. As Paul Anderson once said, “a tired boy is a good boy.” In addition to a fully accredited high-school education, we offer them the opportunity to learn technical skills such as welding and woodworking. Through Scripture memory we plant God’s Word in their hearts, and through Bible study we introduce them to Jesus Christ on a daily basis. A PAYH young man truly stays busy!
2021 Chick-fil-A Race
The 6th annual Chick-fil-A Vidalia Road Race is fast approaching, and so far we have almost 300 runners signed up. Benefiting both PAYH and Winshape Camps, this race is one of our town’s hidden treasures. This year will be different because of COVID, but rest assured that we will be doing everything we can to ensure a safe and fun event. Whether you are a competitive athlete or a casual walker who wants to support a good cause, there’s a place for you. Sign up today at RunVidalia.com!
As we celebrate 60 years of operation and look to impact the lives of more young men, we are asking everyone to keep an open ear and open heart to spread the word about the Paul Anderson Youth Home and connect us with the families of young men who are struggling with behavioral problems and issues of discipline, anger, and depression. Through our spiritual counseling, character development, and accelerated learning program, we share Christ with these young men. He is the one who transforms their lives for eternity.
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