Job is the Bible’s portrait of integrity. Even after he lost everything, his wife told him to “curse God, and die,” and God himself said of him: “still he holdeth fast his integrity.” St Thomas More, Henry VIII’s Lord Chancellor, gave his life in 1535 rather than swear an oath he believed was false. Before his execution he said he died “the king’s good servant, and God’s first.”
Historical Context
An Integrity Prayer
Lord, make me whole.
Let me be the same person in every room I walk into.
Help me keep my word, even when it costs me.
Keep me honest in my work, my money and my relationships.
When no one is watching, remind me that you are.
When doing right is unpopular, give me courage.
St Thomas More, pray for me.
Amen.
When Tempted to Cut Corners
Lord, no one would ever know.
But I would, and you would.
Help me do it right.
Amen.
For Leaders
Lord, give integrity to those who lead us:
in government, business, the Church and our families.
Let them serve the truth and not themselves.
Amen.
Best Times for This Prayer
- Before a decision with an ethical side.
- At the start of a new job or role.
- On 22 June, the feast of Sts Thomas More and John Fisher.
Scripture Connection
“The integrity of the upright shall guide them: but the perverseness of transgressors shall destroy them.” — Proverbs 11:3
Integrity isn’t just a rule to follow. Proverbs says it guides us. Once you’ve decided to be honest, many decisions make themselves.
Related prayers
For honesty, see the Prayer for Honesty. For lawyers, the Lawyers Prayer. For St Thomas More’s feast, the June 22 Prayer.