Integrity of Leaders

Christian believers who have been given the mantle of leadership, regardless of the context or venue, have an even greater responsibility for integrity than those in their care. As Paul asserts in 1Tim.3, "If anyone aspires to the office of overseer, he desires a noble task." However, "...an overseer must be above reproach... sober-minded, self-controlled, respectable - not violent, not a lover of money." ...above reproach! 

Why? Because the behaviour of one leader affects the whole group. Paul said, "A little leaven, leavens the whole lump." (1Cor.5:6) There is a really good example of this in Joshua, chapter seven. The dishonest action of the head of one of the Judah clan families resulted in the removal of Yahweh's protection and empowerment, a humiliating defeat in battle, the death of 36 and the disillusionment of the whole nation of Israel. They knew that if Yahweh wasn't with them, they were done for! "And the hearts of the people melted and became as water." (Josh.7:5) All this as the result of the lack of integrity of one leader! 

Father, I pray for those called into leadership. In fact, I pray with King David for all of us who have accepted that mantle, "Let not those who hope in you be put to shame through me, O Lord of hosts; let not those who seek you be brought to dishonour through me. (Psalm.69:6)