When I was little, I was taught to be a person of integrity. This means that I maintain high moral standards, and do the right thing even when no one is watching.

After I grew up, I started applying this principle to every area of my life, but in doing so, I encountered opposition. Whenever I told the truth, I was told, “You take things too seriously.” Whenever I worked hard, others would say, “It’s not worth working hard.” For a while, I wondered if I really needed to continue to do the right thing and if I could bend the rules a bit. However, whenever I did or said something that contradicted my beliefs, I would lose my inner peace. From then on, I made up my mind not to compromise my values just to please others.

If you have had similar experiences to mine, why not ask yourself some questions? If you send your car to a mechanic for repairs, do you want the mechanic give your car the best service? If you allow a financial advisor to handle your money, do you expect him to give you the best return for your investment? Of course you do. Integrity is one of the greatest of life’s treasures that you cannot live without.

Integrity shapes your character and reveals your true faithfulness. Apply it to every area of your life. Perhaps, in the short run, you might get ripped off. However, in the long run, as long as you stay true to your values, you will be the one in charge of your life.