Musings about self-identity, projection, perception and reality.

Image

Image is what we want people to think of us.

Image is the caricature we have in mind that we wish people would see when they see us.

Trying to live up to an image of ourselves while self-serving also results in “people pleasers.”

Reputation

Reputation is what people think of us.

This may or may not have anything to do with reality.

Character

Character is who we are.

Character included the way we live out our real values and beliefs (versus our stated values and beliefs that though “believed” are not consistently live out) and the soundness of those values and beliefs.

Character therefore is having the right standards for truth and goodness (righteousness) and living consistently according to those standards.

Integrity

Integrity can be defined in the sense of wholeness or un-dividable (i.e. “the integrity of the plane”).  Integrity is the consistent connection of character and actions.

Biblical or Christian Integrity is more than just “being true to yourself” it is living according to God’s standard for truth, virtue and uprightness which leads to honesty, trustworthiness and humility.

Proverbs 10:9 Whoever walks in integrity walks securely, but he who makes his ways crooked will be found out. (ESV)

Integrity unleashes courage to live without concern for consequences–or better, with a greater concern for lose of integrity than lose of reputation or image.