For years, many of us have assumed that published news stories were well-researched, unbiased and provided a variety of perspectives. That’s what we expect and need. However, in recent years, this has been called into question with accusations of “false news.”  

The real issue at stake here is one of integrity. Can the message and the messenger really be truly trusted and respected? Integrity means sound, complete and integrated. In other words, do your actions line up with what you say.

The Bible has a lot to say about integrity from cover to cover. Leaders who lead with integrity reflect these three qualities described in Scripture.

Leadership with Character

Jesus challenged the Pharisee’s with “First wash the inside of the cup and the dish, and then the outside will become clean, too.” Matt 23:26 (NLT) Clean up your own internal thinking so that what you think and say is what you do. As has been said “What’s down in the well comes up in the bucket!”

Can those whom you serve count on or trust what you say and the leadership you provide? 

Leadership with Conviction

It’s critically important, as business leader, that we have well established values and ethics to run our businesses? Paul reminded Titus to “hold firmly to the trustworthy message as it has been taught, so that he can encourage others by sound doctrine and refute those who oppose it.” Titus 1:9 (NIV)

Articulating what we believe and the basis for the same will serve as a standard of measurement when we run into trouble or need to counsel our staff.

Do those you serve have an awareness and appreciation for your personal and business values?

Leadership with Consistency

Everyone looks for leaders who are dependable and trustworthy.This is measured by how consistent we are in aligning our values with what we say and do day after day. In talking to Timothy, Paul cautioned “Watch your life and doctrine closely. Persevere in them.” I Tim 4:15(NIV) Like Timothy, we all need others in our lives to keep us accountable so,when we “do slip off the rails,”someone is there to help us recover with grace and dignity.

As a leader, who keeps you accountable for being consistent with your values?

No leader wants to be called a person of “False News” because he or she cannot be trusted and respected. We all want to be leaders of integrity making a significant impact for God’s Kingdom.

To ensure you are: Take time to reflect on how well you consistently live out your convictions because that’s what ultimately defines your character.