Integrity:Despised

in·teg·ri·ty

1. Steadfast adherence to a strict moral or ethical code.
2. The state of being unimpaired; soundness.
3. The quality or condition of being whole or undivided; completeness.

In Genesis 25:34 we can read the culmination of a transaction that had more ramifications then either the seller or buyer may have realized. In this story there are no good guys. Esau sold his birthright for a bowl of stew. We know why he did this: He had a felt need. It also seems that he would not have been surprised if he did not live long enough to enjoy the benefits of his birthright. On the other side, we have the supplanter. He low-balls the value of the birthright, taking advantage of his brother's desperation. Can you say "brotherly love"?

de·spise

1. To regard with contempt or scorn.
2. To dislike intensely; loathe.
3. To regard as unworthy of one's interest or concern.

All that to get to this: We can despise our integrity in much the same way as Esau did his birthright. How often do we feel that a "need" of the present is worth more than our integrity? How often have I traded my own wholeness (and holiness) for a bowl of stew? That stew could be a little extra (ill-gotten) cash to help ends meet, the lie told to avoid a confrontation (including the words left unsaid), or the spouse that cheats (as well as the spouse that neglects) because it is easier than being naked with each other.

Every transaction has a supplier and a consumer. Had Jacob not enabled the transaction, had he provided for his kin without guile, would the deceit of Genesis 27 been necessary? How often have I enabled or encouraged the fall of my brother for my own gain? Truly, more than I care to remember.

In each of these, we have less concern for being undivided, whole and sound than we do for satisfying a felt need. I find examples all over Scripture. I also find examples strewn throughout my life. It pains me because I know it reflects a lack of faith. It says, "God, I don't think You are going to take care of this need, and even though I know this option I came across doesn't square with Your Word I am going to go my way." Could there be another reason I would fail to stand in the wisdom and promises of God? I don't think so. Am I my brother's keeper? Yes I am. Likewise, you are my keeper.