I had a business appointment recently. The party never showed up, and never bothered to call and apologize. My time was not valued. Apparently, his word wasn't worth much either.

What ever happened to "your word is your bond?" These days, people tend to give their word without the slightest intention of honoring it.

Some make ambitious pledges on a whim to worthy causes, with good intentions. But once the emotional thrill is gone, so goes the will to follow through on their commitment.

It seems personal integrity has fallen victim to a society that is no longer disturbed by broken promises; a culture where lying is a skillful art form. Even under oath, some people feel quite at ease fabricating or stretching the truth.

The newspaper headlines are awash with shocking stories of corporate fraud, crooked politicians, even lying journalists making up stories. At times, is seems our world is a cesspool, simmering in deception and trickery. But Christ followers must stay above the fray.

If we are to be people of integrity, the simple act of keeping our word is a good place to start. Not too long ago, a man's word chiseled his reputation. If he broke it, his honor was seriously damaged. Some would have rather died than renege on a commitment. Now-a-days, many people keep commitments only if and when we feel like it. But your broken word indicates you cannot be trusted. It suggests you are unreliable.

God is calling on us to take our cue from Jesus Christ--a man of honor and above reproach. Everything He said He would do, He did. God Himself so honors His own word, He has lifted it above His name!

Your word measures your integrity. It reflects character, the true you. That's why it's crucial not to toss it around casually.

12 Tips to Build Integrity:

1. Keep your commitments to God. If you don't, you'll live in spiritual turmoil.

2. Don't make commitments you know you can't keep. That only breeds frustration.

3. Don't rush to please people by making empty promises. You'll only disappoint them and yourself in the long run.

4. Strive to be a person of honor. Don't say one thing and do another.

5. Value other people's time. If you make an appointment, keep it.

6. If you must break a commitment, give proper and timely notice. People will respect you for being considerate.

7. Don't base your promised word on feelings or emotions. Feelings are fleeting, but our word should stand firm.

8. Always speak the truth in love. Don't try to spare people's feeling by being dishonest.

9. Know your limitations. Don't be a hero and overburden yourself with commitments. Something will suffer.

10. Just say no. Don't feel obligated. Better to disappoint up front, than to agree to a task and fail to follow through.

11. Value yourself and your time. You can't be all things to all people. Don't give place to guilt because you can't give your word.

12. Don't be haphazard. When you do commit to a task, perform it to the best of your ability.

Your word is like currency. Anybody should be able to take it to the bank. But if all you are depositing is empty commitments, that currency has no value. And your character becomes worthless.

Value and honor your word. That alone will yield a rich supply of personal integrity.