I don't remember when I started associating the word integrity with the Word of God, but the association has been there for some time now. Integrity is defined by Webster as "the quality or state of being complete; unbroken condition; wholeness, entirety; the quality or state of being unimpaired; perfect condition; soundness." In other words, we can trust it and rely on it without doubt. Now put within that context, the word never. Before the creation of the universe was never; beyond the passing of heaven and earth is never. It's one of those words like eternity--if you try too hard to grasp it, all you get is a headache. But God, who has been around for another one of those words--forever--understands operating without time constraints. In fact, we are told in Genesis 1 that time was created specifically for the creatures of this earth. God has never been bound by it.

At least three times in the Synoptic Gospels, Jesus said, "Heaven and earth will pass away but my words will never pass away" (Matt. 24:35, Mark 13:31, Luke 21:33).That's integrity!

The Psalmist writes: "Your word, O Lord, is eternal; it stands firm in the heavens.Your faithfulness continues through all generations; You established the earth and it endures. Your laws endure to this day, for all things serve You" (119:89-91). Isaiah writes: "The grass withers and the flowers fall but the word of our God stands forever" (40:8); and "As the rain and the snow come down from heaven and do not return to it without watering the earth and making it flourish so that it yields seed for the sower and bread for the eater, so is My word that goes out from My mouth: It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it" (55:8-11). Integrity, indeed!

"In the beginning was the Word and the Word was with God and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning" (John 1:1-2); and "Jesus Christ [is] the same yesterday, today and forever" (Hebrews 13:8).

I don't know about tomorrow; I just live from day to day.

I don't borrow from its sunshine For its skies may turn to grey.

I don't worry over the future, For I know what Jesus said.

And today I'll walk beside Him, For He knows what is ahead.

Many things about tomorrow I don't seem to understand,

But I know who holds tomorrow, And I know who holds my hand.     -----Ira F. Stanphill

"God has said, 'I will never leave you nor forsake you'" (Heb. 13:5).

Thank You, Lord. I can always trust in You. Amen