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Integrity Before God

February 20, 2025

By Andrew Williams

“But there was a certain man named Ananias who, with his wife, Sapphira, sold some property. He brought part of the money to the apostles, claiming it was the full amount. With his wife’s consent, he kept the rest. Then Peter said, ‘Ananias, why have you let Satan fill your heart? You lied to the Holy Spirit, and you kept some of the money for yourself. The property was yours to sell or not sell, as you wished. And after selling it, the money was also yours to give away. How could you do a thing like this? You weren’t lying to us but to God!’ As soon as Ananias heard these words, he fell to the floor and died. Everyone who heard about it was terrified. Then some young men got up, wrapped him in a sheet, and took him out and buried him.” Acts 5:1-5

Good morning fellow disciples.

This passage presents a sobering moment in the early church’s history. Ananias and Sapphira sought to appear more generous than they actually were by pretending to give the full proceeds of their property sale while secretly keeping a portion for themselves. Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, discerned their deceit and confronted Ananias, revealing that the true issue wasn’t the amount given but the dishonesty and lack of integrity in their hearts.

This story is a powerful reminder that God values truth and sincerity, especially in our devotion and service to Him. The sin of Ananias wasn’t that he kept part of the money, but that he lied about it, attempting to deceive others and ultimately lying to God Himself. It calls us to reflect on our own integrity before God, reminding us that He sees not just our actions but the motives of our hearts.

Peter’s role in this story teaches us the importance of accountability and spiritual discernment in the body of Christ. As a leader, Peter did not shy away from addressing the sin in the community, knowing that purity and truth were essential for the spiritual health of the church. His example empowers us to lovingly confront sin when necessary, always relying on the Holy Spirit to guide us in truth and wisdom.

Peter also demonstrates the weight of responsibility that comes with leadership. He wasn’t acting out of judgment or self-righteousness but out of a desire to keep the church holy and aligned with God’s will. His response reminds us to approach accountability with humility and prayer, seeking God’s glory above all.

Are there areas in your life where you’ve been tempted to appear more righteous, generous, or faithful than you truly are? Take time to reflect and redirect your focus to integrity before God. Remember that what matters most to Him is not outward appearances but a heart that is honest, humble, and fully devoted to Him.

Spend time in prayer, asking the Holy Spirit to reveal any areas in your life where you’ve been lacking honesty or integrity. Confess these to God and commit to living with sincerity in your words, actions, and motives. If you’ve misled others, take a step toward making it right.

Prayer: Lord God, You see my heart and know my thoughts completely. Forgive me for the times I’ve cared more about appearances than about truly honoring You. Help me to redirect my focus to living with integrity and truth before You and others. Fill me with Your Spirit so that my actions and motives align with Your will. Teach me to walk in humility and sincerity, always seeking to glorify You. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

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