The Message of LeadershipSample

IT WILL WRECK YOUR LIFE

"Confidence...thrives on honesty, on honor, on the sacredness of obligations, on faithful protection and on unselfish performance."
-Franklin D. Roosevelt

A dishonest life is full of rot and will be exposed, causing you great embarrassment. It is not a question of “if” but “when” you will be exposed. The writer of Proverbs exalts the virtue of honesty. Where does honesty rank in your set of values? I am ashamed to admit that I have often struggled with being honest. Maybe you have failings in this area of your life too.

Years ago, I learned a very important lesson about verbal honesty that is seared on my consciousness. I hope it will help you as it has helped me. A friend of mine wanted to come visit me for the weekend but had responsibilities at his church that needed his attention. In order to get permission to leave, he told the entire congregation that I had
been hurt in a car accident and he was needed at my bedside. Someone in the audience knew a girl I was dating and found out that my friend was lying—what an embarrassment when the truth leaked out!

The theory of six degrees of separation says that no one is more than six relationships removed from anyone else. This idea is not just about networking—it speaks to your need to be honest as well. Once you are proven to be dishonest, it is difficult to regain the trust of others; difficult, but not impossible. Confess your lie immediately or take back what was stolen. Don’t let it go uncorrected or it will fester and become a “rotten stench” in your character. Face up to your sin and admit that it is wrong. That is the pathway to healing and restoration. There is nothing so pure and strong as a man with a clear conscience.

Essential Insight 10: Determine that honesty will be a hallmark of your life and pay scrupulous attention to maintaining it at all times, no matter what the cost.