Making a Difference:

Danny recaps the previous week’s message on being a difference maker by letting one’s light shine, referencing Matthew 5:16 . He emphasizes the importance of making a positive impact on others, even without a large platform. Using examples like doctors curing diseases and athletes like Simone Biles inspiring young girls, he illustrates how different people can make a difference in various ways.

Living with Integrity:

Danny introduces the concept of integrity, comparing it to the structural integrity of the Titanic. He explains that integrity involves living a unified and undivided life, not compartmentalizing different aspects such as work, home, and church. Integrity means being the same person in private and public life, reflecting God’s truth in all actions and thoughts.

Why is Integrity Important?

1. Pleases God:

Integrity pleases God because it reflects His absolute truth and honesty. Danny cites Proverbs 3:22 , which states that the Lord hates twisted hearts but delights in those with integrity. God values integrity because it aligns with His nature and helps point others to Him.

2. Affects Others:

Integrity influences those around us, particularly our families and communities. Danny references Proverbs 20:7, which highlights the blessing of honest lives to children, and Proverbs 11:11 , which emphasizes the positive impact of good people on their cities. Living with integrity can inspire respect and trust from others.

3. Blesses Me:

Danny discusses the personal benefits of living with integrity, such as smoother and more confident living. He quotes Proverbs 11:5-6, noting that moral character makes for smooth sailing, whereas a lack of integrity leads to a difficult life. Integrity provides confidence and eliminates the need to remember different stories for different people.

How to Live with Integrity:

1. Speak the Truth:

Always telling the truth is crucial for integrity. Danny cites Proverbs 12:22 , which states that the Lord hates liars but is pleased with those who keep their word. He discusses the importance of honesty in relationships, referencing Ephesians 4:15 , which encourages speaking the truth in love.

2. Stand for What’s Right:

Standing for what is right, even when it is difficult, is essential for integrity. Danny highlights 2 Corinthians 13:8, which states that believers should stand for the truth at all times. He acknowledges the challenge of standing for truth in a society that often rejects absolute truth.

3. Stay Clean:

Maintaining purity in mind, body, and motives is vital for integrity. Danny references Philippians 2:15 , which encourages living clean and innocent lives in a crooked and perverse world. He uses the example of Noah, who was chosen by God for his integrity, to illustrate the importance of staying clean even when it is challenging.

Practical Steps to Maintain Integrity:

• Choose the Right Friends:

Surrounding oneself with the right friends is crucial for maintaining integrity. Danny advises choosing friends who uplift rather than drag down, referencing 1 Corinthians 15:33 , which warns that bad company corrupts good character.

• Value Integrity Over Image:

Danny cautions against prioritizing image over integrity. He emphasizes the importance of caring about the small details in life and being consistent in private and public actions.

• Monitor Media Intake:

Filtering what one allows into their mind is essential for integrity. Danny cites Psalm 101:2-3 and Proverbs 15:14 to highlight the importance of avoiding vile and vulgar content and seeking truth.

Conclusion:

Danny concludes by urging the congregation to commit to living with integrity and relying on God’s power to help them shine as lights in a dark world. He emphasizes that a life of integrity is not easy but is worth it and that true integrity comes from being plugged into God and letting His power guide one’s actions.