Is Your Word Credible?

 Integrity doesn’t bend to convenience. It holds steady, even when it’s not easy.

It’s a sobering question, isn’t it? Most people wouldn’t call themselves liars. We’re generally full of good intentions and we often mean well. But meaning well and following through are two very different things.

Let’s be honest: How often do we say things like, “I’ll pray for you,” “Let’s catch up soon,” “I’ll be there,” or “I’ve got you” but never follow through? Not necessarily because we’re malicious, but because we don’t feel like it anymore, life got busy, or something better came along.

Here’s the thing: Real character isn’t proven in comfort. It’s proven in consistency.(Read that again). The Bible says in Psalm 15:4, “He who keeps an oath even when it hurts, and does not change their mind.” That verse wrecks me every time. It reminds me that integrity doesn’t bend to convenience. It holds steady, even when it’s not easy.

In my book, Get Serious and Other Principles to Pull You Through, there’s a chapter titled “Be a Person of Your Word.” The bottom line is this: “Don’t say it if you’re not willing and able to do it.” And I would take it a step further—don’t say it if you know you’re not going to keep your word when something better comes along. If your commitment is conditional, then your character is questionable.

We live in a culture that often celebrates “doing you” and “changing your mind.” And while it’s healthy to have boundaries and flexibility, we have to remember that our word carries weight. Our speech isn’t just about making people feel good in the moment; it’s about backing up our values, our faith, and our identity with action.

One thing I’ve had to grow in is making fewer promises and following through on more. I want my speech to be a contract, not just a comfort. If I say it, I want people to know they can count on it. Not because I’m perfect, but because I take my word seriously. And when I can’t keep my word? I own it. I apologize. I make it right. Because even that shows integrity.

Ask yourself this: If people only had your words to measure your character, what would they conclude?

Do your kids, coworkers, or friends know you’ll do what you say? Can God trust you with an assignment, knowing you’ll see it through even when it’s not glamorous? Let’s not just talk the talk. Let’s walk it. Consistently. Faithfully. Even when it costs us something.

Nugget of Truth:

Your word is your bond. Don’t say it if you don’t plan on keeping your word at all costs. True integrity doesn’t waver with the wind. Let your “yes” mean yes, your “no” mean no, and your character speak louder than any promise.