What steps can we take to ensure integrity in our leadership roles? The Warning in 1 Samuel 8:3 “ But his sons did not walk in his ways; they turned aside toward dishonest gain, took bribes, and perverted justice.” Samuel’s boys teach us a painful lesson: even leaders raised in the best environment can drift when integrity is neglected. Scripture exposes their failure so we can guard our own hearts. Recognize the Roots of Compromise • Dishonest gain—greed unchecked (cf. Proverbs 15:27) • Bribes—favoritism for personal benefit (cf. Exodus 23:8) • Perverted justice—misuse of authority that wounds the innocent (cf. Deuteronomy 16:19-20) Left alone, these roots strangle credibility and dishonor God’s name. Step 1: Pursue Personal Holiness Daily • Psalm 24:3-4—clean hands, pure heart • 1 Peter 1:15-16—“Be holy in all you do” Practical action: schedule unhurried time in the Word each day; let it search motives before tasks begin. Step 2: Commit to Transparent Stewardship • 2 Corinthians 8:20-21—“taking great care to do what is right, not only in the eyes of the Lord, but also in the eyes of men” • Luke 16:10—faithful in little, faithful in much Practical action: keep open books, dual signatures, and clear reporting for every resource God entrusts. Step 3: Embrace Ongoing Accountability • Proverbs 27:17—iron sharpens iron • Hebrews 3:13—exhort one another daily Practical action: invite a trusted brother or sister to ask the hard questions about money, relationships, and attitude. Step 4: Guard Against the Love of Money • 1 Timothy 6:10—love of money, root of all kinds of evil • Proverbs 11:3—integrity guides the upright Practical action: set predetermined giving percentages and resist lifestyle creep when income rises. Step 5: Uphold Impartial Justice • Deuteronomy 16:19-20—no partiality, no bribes • Micah 6:8—do justice, love mercy, walk humbly Practical action: base every decision on God’s standards, not personal connections or potential gain. Step 6: Lead by Servant Example • Mark 10:45—the Son of Man came to serve • John 13:15—“I have set you an example” Practical action: do unseen tasks yourself, highlight others’ contributions, and place people over projects. Step 7: Saturate Choices in Prayer and Scripture • Joshua 1:8—meditate day and night • James 1:5—ask God for wisdom Practical action: pause to pray before meetings and major expenditures; weigh decisions against clear biblical principles. Putting It All Together • Stay close to Christ—integrity flows from intimacy with Him. • Keep finances, relationships, and motives in the light. • Invite faithful friends to speak truth regularly. • Measure success by faithfulness, not applause or gain. Leaders who walk these steps honor the Lord, bless those they serve, and avoid the tragic headline attached to Samuel’s sons: “they turned aside.” |
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