I thought I’d simultaneously write this note to you and do the homework for the men’s group I’m in. Yes, sometimes we guys can multi-task. The subject matter is a basic element of character. A trait we are all drawn to… Integrity.

In the context of the Easter season, integrity can be explained by example of chocolate bunnies. Just by looking at them, a roomful of these chocolate companions can all look pretty good. Once you nibble on the ear of a chocolate Easter rabbit, you’ll quickly discover whether it’s solid or hollow. Hollow bunnies are different on the outside than they are on the inside. Solid bunnies are chocolate all the way through. So, which chocolate bunny is a better example of integrity?

I want to live my life like a solid chocolate Easter bunny, except for the part about being devoured. So there the analogy ends, and a quick lesson begins. Integrity is the sense of consistency between a person’s inner values, and their words and actions in life. That’s the kind of person most of us will gravitate to and be willing to follow.

•    When words don’t overlap with values and actions, they show a lack of honesty.
•    When actions don’t follow one’s words and values, they show a lack of courage.
•    When values aren’t reflected by actions and words, one might say and do anything to win favor. This is often labeled as “political syndrome.”
•    When words, actions, and values barely overlap at all, they show a total lack of integrity, being out of touch with reality.

Joseph and Daniel are both great examples of integrity you’ll find in the pages of the Bible. Perhaps you can think of someone in your life that reflects integrity. I find God will provide us the choices in life and multiple opportunities to “do the next right thing” when no one is looking and grow in the character He desires for all of us.

Moral of my little story? Don’t be a hollow bunny, when solid chocolate is so much better!