Devotion Twenty-eight
"He who walks with integrity walks securely, but he who perverts his ways will become known." Proverbs 10:9
Did you know that integrity helps leaders walk confidently before and with others? Many lack security in their leadership because they lack integrity. Briefly, integrity refers to moral soundness, which shapes behaviours, values, and beliefs. Leaders must demonstrate this moral soundness to lead effectively.
The
Word of God emphasises integrity not only to believers but also to leaders, who
should exemplify it. In Proverbs, Solomon said, “He who walks with integrity
walks securely...” (10:9a), highlighting the importance of integrity in
leadership. A leader is only safe from blame, corruption, and criticism when he
follows the principle of moral soundness by controlling his behaviour,
thoughts, and beliefs. If he does the opposite or betrays his walk, he is likely
to be condemned (as a hypocrite, corrupt, looter, or blasphemer). The Bible
states, “He who perverts his ways will become known” (10:9b). Leaders should
strongly avoid distorting their words and actions to uphold integrity with
their followers.
In one of the unfortunate stories, we had a powerful
pastor whom people loved. However, he betrayed the love of the people by
indulging in sexual immorality until one day, he was caught with his member’s
wife. They arrested and prosecuted him. Because of that, the church he pastored
collapsed. The pastor's lack of integrity teaches us that leaders should be careful about their actions
and avoid compromising their integrity.
With that in mind, the Bible reminds us, as leaders,
to be mindful of our integrity with the people we lead and ourselves. Leaders
should never distort their character by being greedy, corrupt, or sexually
immoral. They should demonstrate integrity by controlling their behaviours and words and fostering healthy relationships with their members to lead
effectively.
As we consider integrity in leadership, how would you
describe your leadership integrity? How will you demonstrate integrity in your
leadership? Beyond being secure, what is another important aspect of integrity
in leadership? Whatever the cost, God calls us to walk with integrity as we
lead His people; therefore, take responsibility for this call with urgency and
significance.
Heavenly Father, it is difficult to lead with integrity given the fallen nature we bear. Kindly help us to cultivate the spirit of integrity by controlling our conduct, behaviour, and words. Thank you for revealing this truth to us. We trust in Your help, in Jesus’ name.
Amen.
28th July, 2025
