The House You Build

"Whoever walks in integrity walks securely, but whoever takes crooked paths will be found out." - Proverbs 10:9 (NIV)

There was a man who was a well-known contractor, renowned for his exceptional craftsmanship and integrity. He built houses that people trusted to last a lifetime. Using only the finest materials, he never cut corners. His reputation for quality was unmatched.

As he grew older, he decided it was time to retire and hand over the family business to his son, who had worked alongside him for years. But before stepping away completely, the father gave his son one final task:

"Son, I want you to build one last house. Build it the way we’ve always built houses—with care, precision, and excellence. I won’t oversee this one; it’s all yours. When it’s done, I’ll come and bless it, and then the business will officially be yours."

The son agreed, but in his heart, he resented his father’s approach to building. He thought, If I ran this company, I’d make a lot more profit. All you have to do is cut a few corners—use cheaper materials here and there. Who’s going to notice?

So, while building the house, the son made compromises. He used substandard materials where they wouldn’t be seen, skipped steps in the process, and pocketed the extra money. On the surface, the house looked flawless. When the father came to inspect it, he praised his son.

"This is wonderful! You’ve done a great job. And now, I want to tell you something. This house is my gift to you. I built houses for others my whole life, but this one is for you to live in. Enjoy it, son."

The son’s heart sank. He realized he would now live in the very house he had built—with its hidden flaws and weaknesses.

This story reminds us that our actions today build the "house" we will live in tomorrow. Integrity matters not just because others are watching, but because we are the ones who have to live with the choices we make.

As Christians, our lives are meant to reflect the character of God, who is holy, truthful, and faithful. Cutting corners—whether in work, relationships, or faith—may seem inconsequential in the moment, but it always comes back to affect us. Like the son in the story, we may think no one else sees, but God does. And, in time, so will we.

Reflection Question: What kind of "house" are you building with your life? Are you cutting corners in areas where God has called you to integrity?

Heavenly Father, thank You for being a God of truth and integrity. You see every part of my life—what’s visible to others and what’s hidden in my heart. Lord, I admit that sometimes I’m tempted to take shortcuts or compromise in ways that seem small, but I know those choices matter. Help me to live a life of integrity, built on the foundation of Your Word. Let my actions, words, and decisions reflect Your character and bring glory to Your name. Teach me to build a life that honors You with excellence and care. And when I’m tempted to cut corners, remind me that the house I build is the one I will live in. In Jesus’ Name, amen.

From "Integrity: an Inside Job": https://www.joshfranklin.org/media/cd43xf5/6-integrity-is-an-inside-job