“Better is the poor who walks in his integrity than one perverse in his ways, though he be rich” (Proverbs 28:10).
Those words from the biblical book largely devoted to wisdom are fitting this week as we learned of former New York Gov. Eliot Spitzer’s cavorting with prostitutes. Spitzer, or “Client 9” to his Emperors Club buddies, is a picture of the unnamed person in the above verse — one who became affluent and influential, yet privately carried on in perverse ways.
Tragically, we see instances like this frequently pop up in the political world, the entertainment world, the business world and, yes, the Christian world. People get focused on their own needs and their darkest desires, and they destroy all that they worked for in their career and family.
This is especially heartbreaking when we see someone from the Christian community who, as my father used to describe it, sold out for a mess of pottage.
The fact is that none of us are immune to the lures of the world. In fact, the Bible is full of characters who succumbed to their lustful desires.
We see from these examples how important it is for Christians to be perpetually committed to their walk with Christ. In fact, the only way we can preserve our integrity as Christians is to be continually relying on Christ to protect our hearts and to direct our steps.
How can we, as Christians, ensure that we remain upright?
Let’s look to the Bible for our answers.
First, we cannot depend on ourselves to stay out of harm’s way. I Peter 5:6,7 tells us, “Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time, casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you” (NKJV). We have a mighty fortress who wants to guide our lives and protect us from ourselves and outside temptations. When we humbly allow him to lead us, we can live victoriously.
Second, we must dedicate regular time to Bible study and prayer. Psalm 119:105 tells us, “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” By constantly studying the Bible, we have God’s word etched into our hearts and minds. Further, the truth of God’s word will be within us whenever we are tempted to do what we know is wrong. It will serve as a stinging reminder of what we know to be true.
Third, we must place around us people of faith and integrity who will endeavor to protect us from temptation. Proverbs 12:26 tells us, “The righteous should choose his friends carefully, for the way of the wicked leads them astray.” Having friends who encourage us in our Christian walk is a great way to avoid the pitfalls that afflict so many. Conversely, getting involved with ill-advised friends is a prescription for disaster.
Ultimately, as Christians, we must steer clear of this world’s many temptations. That is, of course, easier said than done, w | 
