The Christian Servant leader is a person of Integrity. “In everything set them an example by doing what is good. In your teaching show integrity, seriousness” (Titus 2:7).
The dictionary definition of integrity is; “the quality of being honest and having strong moral principles; moral uprightness. The synonyms are; honesty, honor, good character, principle(s), ethics, morals, righteousness, morality, virtue, decency, fairness, scrupulousness.
“Leadership is about integrity, honesty and accountability. Leadership comes from telling us not what we want to hear, but rather what we need to hear. To be a true leader, to engender deep trust and loyalty, starts with telling the truth.” Leaders Eat Last by Simon Sinek
“Eight in ten believe top executives of large companies will take ‘improper actions’ to help themselves at the expense of their companies. Credibility for business leaders may well be at an all time low” James C. Hunter in The World’s most Powerful Leadership Principle.
On a daily basis, where are you? Do you demonstrate integrity in all you do? As a leader, you set the example. Your followers and the culture of your organization will emulate your level of integrity, both good and bad.
Nehemiah demonstrated his level of integrity when he confirmed, “we are making a binding agreement, putting it in writing, and our leaders…are affixing their seals to it” (Nehemiah 9:38). Further, Nehemiah put Hanani in charge of Jerusalem, “because he was a man of integrity and feared God more than most men do (Nehemiah 7:2). Or, as a description of Christ, “Teacher, they said, we know you are a man of integrity and that you teach the way of God in accordance with the truth…” (Matthew 22:16). Further, “the Lord said to Satan, have you considered my servant Job? There is no one on earth like him; he is blameless and upright, a man who fears God and shuns evil. And he still maintains his integrity, though you incited me against him to ruin him without any reason” (Job 2:3)
Leadership is maintaining integrity.
Yours in service,
Laurie D. Kennedy
Leadership Coach