God’s Plan of Salvation provides a way for us to return to live with HIm and become like Him. When we consider the gulf that separates us from God, this seems impossible. It is impossible on our own efforts and merits. However, because of our Savior, Jesus Christ, it is not only possible— it is the expected outcome if we follow Him. We are limited. He is not. Everyday we strive to follow Him. Of course, everyday we fall short. So, we repent, renew our commitment to follow him and start again. In this way we are perfect in Christ. Seem simple? It is in principle, but in addition to having faith and trust in Christ it requires humility and integrity. 

Integrity is the quality of being honest and having strong moral principles.

Integrity is an important aspect of how we interact with ourselves, with others around us, and with God. 

• If we lack integrity with ourselves we refuse to acknowledge weaknesses, faults and wrongdoings. This robs us of the opportunity to change.  

• When we are dishonest with those around us, we lose favor with both God and man. We are not trusted and our confidence weakens in the presence of both God and man.  

• When we lack integrity in our relationship with God, we make His Plan of Salvation ineffectual in our lives.

Thankfully, our membership in Christ’s church gives us opportunities to practice and improve. I would like to highlight three regular opportunities we have to practice integrity

1. Temple recommend interviews: every two years we are interviewed by a member of our bishopric and stake presidency. We are asked a series of questions that allow us to assess our worthiness to enter the Lord’s House. The standard isn’t perfection. Many of the questions begin with the phrase “Do you strive…”  This process encourages self reflection as we consider how we are living the Gospel.   As we approach this opportunity with integrity, we can become comfortable being transparent and identifying and working on aspects of our lives, testimony, and gospel living that need work. We are empowered to repent and find greater joy.

2. Sacrament: Each week, we have the opportunity to make a self assessment of our lives and discipleship of the Savior. How are we doing in taking His name upon us? How are we doing keeping his commandments? Are we always remembering Him? What a great opportunity to practice integrity as we make self assessments, recognize our relationship with God and repent with gratitude in our hearts for a Savior that makes it possible. 

3. Personal prayer: When we approach our Heavenly Father in prayer we have an opportunity to practice integrity with Him. No one else is listening. We can share our greatest concerns, struggles, and challenges. We acknowledge our sins and weakness and plead for strength, guidance, and grace through our Savior Jesus Christ. 

Through our covenants with Christ we yoke ourselves with Him. As we practice integrity, we see ourselves as God sees us. We are empowered to change and seek repentance. Our confidence grows in the presence of God and man.  We find greater joy in our relationship with God. The Plan of Salvation becomes effectual in our lives as the Savior works in us to become like Him.

In the name of our Savior, Jesus Christ. Amen