Being a person of your word—a person of integrity who does their best to do what they say they’re going to do—has a positive impact that can literally last for generations.

Skeptical?

Think of someone from your past who had a really positive impact on you—someone who was a person of their word, someone who was dependable. Maybe it was a teacher, parent, friend, Sunday School teacher or coach.

The fact that you can remember them is proof that people of integrity have a lasting impact. If it wasn’t true you wouldn’t have been able to remember them! But you do. They’ve impacted you.

And now you have an impact on others.

I’m not saying you’re perfect. (None of us are.) But who you are as a person of integrity continues to have a ripple effect.

Speaking to his disciples in John 13:15, Jesus said, “I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you.” An entire world has been impacted by Jesus’ example and integrity—his commitment to speak the truth and act in love. It’s a legacy that you and I are called to continue.

Who can name Terry Fox’s high school basketball or cross country running coach? Who can name Martin Luther King Junior’s Sunday School teacher? We can’t name them, but I’m guessing they have had a massive impact on future generations.

Be a person of your word. Be a person of integrity. Be someone who speaks the truth and acts in love.

Your impact can last for generations.

By Matthew Ruttan

-Bible quotes are from the New International Version.