Whoever walks in integrity walks securely
Proverbs 10:9 - Integrity means that we must always be consistent in our actions, words, and thoughts — committing ourselves to God’s standards, even when no one is watching.
“Whoever walks in integrity walks securely, but whoever takes crooked paths will be found out.”
Proverbs 10:9 NIV
Back to the Proverbs on this first day of summer, which is good, because I feel like I could use an infusion of wisdom!
Chapter 10 of Proverbs is the beginning of a new section of the book. The first nine chapters act as an introduction to the book, while this chapter begins a long series of two-phrase single verses of wisdom from Solomon. All of the Proverbs from 10:1 to 22:16 are written in a similar manner, and each is an easily read and understood standalone statement.
What is integrity? The dictionary defines it as “adherence to moral and ethical principles; soundness of moral character; honesty.” The original ancient Hebrew word is תֹּם (tōm), and also adds the definitions of “completeness, innocence” to the mix.
Solomon is saying that a person who adheres to ethical principles with nothing to hide and no double life can walk in integrity. In the context of the times in the Near East, integrity was very highly valued by society and associated with the faithfulness to the Old Covenant that was expected of God’s people. People with integrity never have to worry about having another person finding out about something “bad” they did, or having a secret sin discovered. They are secure in their honest and moral lives, and innocent of any wrongdoing.
What about the second part of this proverb — “but whoever takes crooked paths will be found out”? Solomon isn’t referring to an actual physical path, but instead talking about the path of righteousness. Someone who takes a crooked path is deviating from the straight and narrow path, deceiving others or having corrupt morals.
The ancient Hebrew for this section of the proverb uses the word עָקַשׁ (ʿāqaš, to be perverse) which can also be defined as “make crooked”. Some translations of the Bible show this as “He who perverts his ways will become known” (NKJV and NASB95, for example). In either case, the proverb explains that immoral behavior will eventually be exposed.
Jesus pointed this out to His disciples before sending them out to heal the sick and drive out impure spirits, as recorded in Matthew 10:26 — “for there is nothing concealed that will not be disclosed, or hidden that will not be made known.” Even if a sin or lack of integrity is never discovered by friends, family, or community, those who take the “crooked path” can never avoid the scrutiny of God.
This proverb is a true today as it was in the time of Solomon. Just this past week, a prominent Christian contemporary musician confessed publicly to allegations that he was abusing drugs and alcohol, as well as making unwanted and inappropriate sexual advances towards younger men. He took the crooked path; he was found out.
There are many teachable points in this short proverb. To walk in integrity, one must live a life consistent with God’s truth. Walking in that path and pleasing God provides physical, spiritual, and emotional security that comes from having a clear conscience. And finally, integrity means that we must always be consistent in our actions, words, and thoughts — committing ourselves to God’s standards, even when no one is watching.
Heaven On Wheels Daily Prayer:
Father in Heaven, thank You for Your Word that guides us in truth. Teach us to walk in integrity daily, choosing the honest and upright path even when it’s difficult. We know we only find true security and peace in You. Keep us from walking crooked paths, and lead us in Your wisdom. We pray this in the name of Jesus, AMEN.