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Fairness and Integrity
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3/5/2010
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"You have sat on the throne judging righteously...He will judge the world in righteousness; He will execute judgment for the peoples with equity." - Psalm 9:4-8 NASB
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Tensions had intensified in colonial America. In Boston, on this day in 1770, a lone British sentry stood guard over the Custom House. A church bell rang, and crowds poured into the streets. A melee resulted, and the sentry was joined by eight soldiers. Feeling threatened, they opened fire, killing five colonists.
The prevailing mood of the public was so hostile that it seemed impossible these soldiers could receive a fair trial. When no one else could be found to defend them, the task fell to John Adams (at the time, a 34-year-old lawyer). Though he was an ardent patriot, he also believed every person had "the right to counsel and a fair trial."
During the trial, he reminded the jury that our "wishes" and "passions...cannot alter the state of facts and evidence." The jury was convinced, acquitting six soldiers and giving the others light sentences.
Adams, who later became America's second President, called this one of the most important actions of his life. He could make such a stand in part because of his strong Christian faith, his foundation in the Bible, and the strong moral foundation he received from his parents.
The Bible describes how important justice is to God. He "is righteous, and he loves justice." "Those who do what is right will see his face" (Psalm 11:7 NLT). He looks for people who realize that He "demands fairness in every business deal" and who know that "He sets the standard" (Proverbs 16:11 NLT).
Today, seek to be a person of integrity-in every business deal, in every word you say, in every relationship. Develop an unwavering commitment to Truth-unable to be swayed by popular opinion or pressure. Remember that you're accountable to God, for "He sets the standard."
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| Prayer |
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Father, I trust my life to You. Help me to be a person of integrity. Give me a commitment to Truth. Strengthen me to resist temptations to compromise. In Jesus' name. Amen.
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| Extended Reading
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Psalm 9
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