Integrity is a bit of an enigma in our day. It is something that everyone values, but few possess. It is something that God looks for in the heart of His people and something that is most genuinely manifest when no one is looking. The issue as to what you are when you are alone is the acid test of whether you are a man or woman who lives with integrity. If you are wanting to grow in your spiritual commitment before the watching eyes of God only, let me commend to you a volume that will change the way you think, speak, and live when the doors are closed, The Power of Integrity by Dr. John F. MacArthur, Jr. 

This book is written in typical MacArthur fashion: full of Scripture, consistently Biblical, and relevant to the society in which we live, especially in a post-"Promise-Keepers" America where integrity is an emotional hoped-for affirmation rather than a commitment to which a man or woman remains faithful under extreme pressures to compromise. 

The most important thing to see from this book is the constant theme of living the life before God the same way day in and day out, regardless of people and circumstances. It is extremely helpful to point out those Biblical examples that have persevered and been faithful to their God. In stark contrast to this, Dr. MacArthur paints the picture of how this is not only missing in our day, but sadly the opposite of that is promulgated, esteemed, and joked about, in the church and the world. 

Other themes that were particularly helpful include a section on working out your salvation, while God is at work in you. Underlying the life and character of a man of God is the section on doctrinal integrity, which is the foundation of all Biblical living. I wrote the word AMEN all the way through that chapter! I find this emphasis particularly important as that attitude seems to be as much under attack in the world today as the ethical integrity. The plot of Satan is simple, wipe out truth, wipe out integrity. If there is no clear standard of what is right, then men can do whatever is right in their own eyes. 

Probably one of the most helpful and convicting chapters included a treatment of Romans 12:9ff in which characteristics of true virtue were exposited. There was a delicate line drawn by MacArthur by examining how and when a person should defend their own integrity - for the sake of the testimony and spread of the Word of God by a man or woman whose life backs up the message. To lose this credibility would cause many harms to the cause of Christ. On the other hand, our lives are to be lived for God alone. If you are walking with integrity, already reflecting character this book will encourage you to excel still more. If you are struggling along the way, this book will motivate and equip you to strive and win. 

This book is great for any believer at any point in their walk. It is also beneficial for an unbeliever who needs to see God's standard of the heart issues, and the professing believer who needs to be challenged to examine his "walk" or lack thereof. MacArthur has always upheld this standard in his preaching and writing, and has always been very clear that the truth transforms a person's life. 

The thing that I walked away most encouraged about was the fact that God wants us to live and act as in His presence. What I am before Him is all that I am and no more. At the same time, he asks that our lives reflect Him to the rest of the world in a blameless way; therefore we do not have integrity before men for men, but have integrity before God which flows into what men might see about us. In other words, if our standard is God and we are striving to please Him alone, then we will walk blamelessly before men with a clear conscience. May this book be your guide and the Spirit of God your power!

From the Back Cover

We live in a society that has largely abandoned moral standards and Christian principles.  Unkept campaign promises, false advertising, exaggerated tax exemptions, employee theft -- compromise has become a way of life.  Such moral concession has even invaded the church.  Faced with an opportunity to proclaim Christ to unbelievers, we feel intimidated and keep silent.  Or we water down God's Word on ethical issues at work or in our community to avoid rejection.  Too often we prefer hypocrisy to integrity.

But God longs for His people to be different -- to maintain a commitment to His standards, no matter what the cost.  Is consistent obedience to God -- integrity -- attainable in this world of sin and self?  By the grace and power of God, yes!

One of the nation's most respected pastors points the way to persevering character in Christ.  Drawing from scriptural examples of godly men who modeled integrity during severe testing, MacArthur makes a compelling case for the impact a man or woman of integrity can have in our world.

A helpful study guide for individuals or groups is included.

About the Author

John F. MacArthur, Jr., is the pastor-teacher of Grace Community Church in Sun Valley, California.  He can be heard daily on the national radio program "Grace to You," and is the author of Ashamed of the Gospel, Drawing Near, Reckless Faith, The Glory of Heaven, and many other books.