Misbehaving….again?

I came across this photo and, OH MY…..total recall!

Years ago, we ran an 85-child daycare (yes, you read that right — eighty-five energetic little ones). One afternoon, I turned my back for what felt like half a second… and that was all it took.

A mischievous 5-year-old had taken scissors in hand and decided his buddy’s perfect afro was in desperate need of a trim. By the time I rushed over, the “stylist” had already carved out a big ol’ splotch right in the middle of that beautiful hair.

The worst part? Having to tell the parents. My heart sank as I imagined their reaction. But to my relief (and eternal gratitude), they met me with grace and understanding instead of anger.

Lesson learned: never underestimate what can happen in the blink of an eye!

We usually reserve the word misbehaving for children squirming in church or sneaking cookies before dinner. But let’s be honest — lately, it’s not just the kids. Adults, especially in the political spotlight, have put on quite the show of “misbehaving.”

But before we judge — what about us? The faith-talking, Bible-toting, cross-wearing, Christ-following crowd. People are watching us too! The question is “Why are WE behaving?”

David, the shepherd boy, gives us a good example. He was anointed to be king, soothed Saul with music, then brought down Goliath with nothing but a sling and some holy courage. That victory sparked songs of praise — “Saul has slain his thousands, but David his ten-thousands.” Talk about a hit single!

But here’s what really set David apart. In the middle of jealousy, betrayal, and responsibility, 1 Samuel 18:14 says: “David BEHAVED wisely in all his ways, and the Lord was with him.”

And that’s where this hits home. Our nation doesn’t just need leaders who talk about integrity — it needs people who live it out, starting with us.

Integrity isn’t about being impressive on Sunday morning. It’s about being faithful day after day when noone’s looking.

So maybe the real question is — are WE behaving in a way that honors God? Do our actions line up with our talk? If God wrote a headline about us, wouldn’t it be great to see these words? “She behaved wisely. He behaved with integrity.”

Like David, we can choose today to behave wisely, walk with integrity, and shine light in a misbehaving world. And who knows? Our obedience might inspire others to follow suit!

When the world misbehaves, let’s be the ones who walk wisely. Integrity isn’t optional — it’s our calling.