Avoid Every Crooked Path

“Whoever walks in integrity walks securely, but whoever takes crooked paths will be found out.” Proverbs 10:9 NIV

In a disappointing story titled “Ruth Chepngetich, Chicago marathon winner and world record holder, suspended for positive doping test” published last week, it was reported that: Women's marathon world record-holder Ruth Chepngetich was provisionally suspended for a positive doping test on Thursday. Track and field's Athletics Integrity Unit said Chepngetich tested positive for a banned diuretic and masking agent in March and "opted for a voluntary provisional suspension while the AIU's investigation was ongoing." The Kenyan runner set the world record by almost two minutes at the Chicago Marathon last October in 2 hours, 9 minutes, 56 seconds. It was her third win in Chicago. The moment Chepngetich set the record in Chicago is forever etched in the minds of runners and sports enthusiasts alike. "A lot of us were there of course on that day, saw the race, saw the impact and how exciting it is to have a world record on the Chicago course," said Tim Bradley, executive director of the Chicago Area Runners Association… Bradley says word of Chepngetich being provisionally suspended for a positive doping test is troubling news. "Obviously, learning this news puts a lot of things into question, you know," Bradley said.

Sadly, as this story illustrates, a lack of integrity in one area of a person’s life can call their whole lives into question. After all, if a person will follow a “crooked path” to get ahead in sports, it’s almost certain that they would follow other “crooked paths” to get ahead as well, right? And although, a person might think they’ve acted in secrecy, the Bible is clear that “whoever takes crooked paths will be found out.” It may not happen overnight, but you can be sure that it will happen. And the disclosure will come with disastrous consequences to the person and even to the church. Which is the very reason believers must walk in integrity—displaying uprightness at all times and an unwillingness to deviate even one step from the path of righteousness. This person not only walks securely but has no fear of sudden disaster. 

So, while it may be tempting to cut corners or to cheat, don’t do it my friend. You might gain recognition, riches, or rewards for doing so, but you can be sure they will be short lived. Those who take crooked paths are always found out. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that any wins or victories that are gained by dishonesty never last. Help us to be people of integrity Lord, that we might always walk securely and bring glory to your Name in all that we say and do. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!