Does integrity permeate every area of your life? (84-4)
In virtually every survey ever taken, integrity is consistently identified as the most desired trait of a leader. Every team member wants assurance that their leader can be trusted to follow through on their promises and commitments. Read 1 Samuel 12:1-4.
Israel’s high regard for Samuel comes as no surprise. During his farewell speech, after having led Israel for decades, Samuel promised to repay anything he had unjustly taken from anyone. What a promise! Even more impressive was the people’s response: Not one person rose up to make a claim against Samuel.
Samuel’s honesty and personal integrity permeated every area of his life. These two characteristics directed how he regarded his possessions, his business dealings and his treatment of those who were weaker than himself. Samuel held himself accountable to the people he led. He opened himself up to the scrutiny of everyone with whom he had ever had dealings. Samuel’s leadership has become legendary as this story has been told and retold throughout the centuries.
Samuel’s example calls each of us to hold to this same standard of integrity. Whatever your leadership responsibilities, whether you’re in charge of a major business or a two-year-old, manage your affairs with honesty. Let your personal commitment to integrity show in what you do during the day, every day. As you do so, you’ll become a leader whom others will eagerly follow.
James 2:18 “Show me your faith without deeds, and I will show you my faith by what I do.”
