In his recent autobiography, “Mean Joe Greene,” told a story about the late Chuck Noll, former head coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers. Noll was a great coach, winning four Super Bowls, and earning the respect of his players. Greene said that as they were preparing for a game against the Houston Oilers, someone presented Coach Noll with an Oilers’ playbook. Coach Noll quickly called a team meeting and said,
“Gentlemen, this is the Houston Oilers’ playbook. We play them twice this year. We have all of their plays and their game plans. But we’re not going to open it. That’s not how we do things. We’re going to prepare; we’re going to line up against them on the field; and we’re going to do what we do, and that will give us the best chance to win.”
With that, Coach Noll threw the playbook in the trash can and walked away.
Integrity!
We just don’t see enough of it, but when we see it, we admire it. It’s no wonder Paul instructed us to hold the doctrine of Christ with integrity (Titus 2:7). Friends, you may know the truth, and you may proclaim it to others, but if those who hear your words don’t see them coupled with integrity, those words, though true, will ring hollow.
“…in all things showing yourself to be a pattern of good works; in doctrine showing integrity, reverence, incorruptibility” (Titus 2:7).
Thanks for reminding us of this vanishing character trait. In a world where we are surrounded by those with a lack of integrity, it is more important than ever that Christians let their light shine by exhibiting integrity in every aspect of their lives.