INTEGRITY: THE PREREQUISITE FOR SUCCESS IN MINISTRY
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro
Main Text: Psalm 15:1-5 (KJV)
"LORD, who shall abide in thy tabernacle? who shall dwell in thy holy hill?
He that walketh uprightly, and worketh righteousness, and speaketh the truth in his heart.
He that backbiteth not with his tongue, nor doeth evil to his neighbour, nor taketh up a reproach against his neighbour.
In whose eyes a vile person is contemned; but he honoureth them that fear the LORD. He that sweareth to his own hurt, and changeth not.
He that putteth not out his money to usury, nor taketh reward against the innocent. He that doeth these things shall never be moved."
Supporting Texts: Proverbs 11:3; 2 Corinthians 8:21; Titus 2:7-8; Daniel 6:4; Job 2:3
INTRODUCTION:
In the divine economy, ministry is not merely about charisma, gifting, or influence—it is about character. At the centre of character lies integrity, a rare but vital commodity in today’s world. Ministry without integrity is like a structure without a foundation—it will eventually crumble under pressure. The success God honours in ministry is not just about results, but about righteousness.
Many ministers fall not because of lack of anointing or spiritual gifts, but because of a lack of integrity. When our walk does not match our talk, we invite reproach to the name of Christ and damage the testimony of the Gospel. The world is not just looking for powerful preachers, but for truthful and trustworthy leaders.
Integrity is doing the right thing even when no one is watching. It is choosing obedience over popularity and holiness over hype. In this message, we shall explore why integrity is non-negotiable for lasting and fruitful success in ministry.
1. INTEGRITY BUILDS TRUST AND CREDIBILITY
Without trust, ministry influence is crippled.
a) Trust is the foundation of spiritual leadership (Proverbs 22:1)
A good name is more valuable than great riches. People will only follow those they trust.
b) Integrity earns respect and lasting honour (Proverbs 10:9)
Those who walk in integrity walk securely, without fear of being exposed or discredited.
c) Credibility sustains long-term ministry impact (1 Timothy 3:7)
Even outsiders must recognise a minister’s good testimony.
d) Reputation without integrity is hypocrisy (Matthew 23:28)
Jesus rebuked the Pharisees who appeared righteous outwardly but were corrupt inwardly.
Biblical Example: Samuel the Prophet (1 Samuel 12:3-5) — He publicly declared his integrity, and the people confirmed his honesty and blamelessness.
2. INTEGRITY PRESERVES THE ANOINTING
The anointing must be protected by purity.
a) Sin corrupts the vessel and limits divine flow (Isaiah 59:2)
When iniquity is present, fellowship with God is broken, and so is effectiveness in ministry.
b) God does not anoint disobedience (1 Samuel 15:23)
Saul’s downfall came when he chose compromise over complete obedience.
c) Holiness safeguards the presence of God (Psalm 24:3-4)
Only those with clean hands and a pure heart can ascend the hill of the Lord.
d) The gifts may remain, but the glory departs (Judges 16:20)
Like Samson, one may still function outwardly, but the Spirit may have departed secretly.
Biblical Example: Joseph (Genesis 39:7-12) — He preserved his destiny by choosing integrity over momentary pleasure, even in private.
3. INTEGRITY ATTRACTS DIVINE FAVOUR AND PROMOTION
God honours those who honour Him with their lifestyle.
a) Righteous living draws divine endorsement (Proverbs 3:3-4)
Integrity brings favour with both God and man.
b) God promotes faithful stewards (Luke 16:10-12)
If you are faithful in little things, God will entrust you with more.
c) Uprightness aligns you with God's principles (Psalm 84:11)
No good thing will He withhold from those who walk uprightly.
d) Integrity unlocks supernatural promotion (Daniel 6:3)
Daniel distinguished himself through an excellent spirit and integrity.
Biblical Example: Daniel (Daniel 6:4-5) — His enemies could find no fault in him because he was faithful and incorruptible.
4. INTEGRITY STRENGTHENS CONSCIENCE AND INNER PEACE
Peace of mind is a priceless asset in ministry.
a) Integrity silences accusations (1 Peter 3:16)
A clear conscience enables a minister to rise above false allegations.
b) It gives boldness in spiritual warfare (Proverbs 28:1)
The righteous are bold because their hearts are clean before God.
c) Inner purity reflects outward confidence (2 Corinthians 1:12)
Paul rejoiced in the testimony of his conscience.
d) A guilty conscience weakens spiritual authority (1 John 3:21-22)
Confidence before God is tied to a clear conscience.
Biblical Example: Job (Job 2:3) — Despite his afflictions, God testified of Job’s integrity.
CONCLUSION:
Integrity is not a suggestion—it is a divine requirement for every minister. It is the invisible backbone that sustains the visible fruit of ministry. Without it, ministry becomes a performance; with it, ministry becomes a divine assignment backed by heaven. In a world of compromise, the minister who walks in integrity will stand out as a light in the darkness.
Let us choose daily to uphold truth, reject hypocrisy, and live blamelessly before God and men. The reward may not always be instant, but it will be eternal. A man or woman of integrity may not always be popular, but they will be powerful and pleasing before God.
PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, give me the grace to walk in integrity all the days of my life.
2. Father, purge me from every form of hidden sin that can destroy my testimony.
3. Let my life and ministry reflect the truth of Your Word.
4. Lord, deliver me from the temptation to compromise my values.
5. Create in me a clean heart, and renew a right spirit within me.
6. Father, let my conscience be tender and responsive to Your Spirit.
7. Uphold me by Your righteous right hand in times of pressure.
8. Lord, may I never sacrifice character on the altar of success.
9. Let the oil of my calling never dry due to impurity or dishonesty.
10. Father, help me to be faithful in little, so You can entrust me with much.
