Maintaining Integrity as Leaders
First, I want to extend an invitation to our Pastors’ Leadership Summit, May 9th, in the Richmond area.
I know it may be a drive for you, but this is a great opportunity for pastors to join together for some enrichment and networking from across the state. If you have staff, associates, or interns, they are also welcome to join you for this one-day event.
Jeff Iorg will be our speaker. He is president of Gateway Seminary. He will be sharing about maintaining spiritual vitality in cultural chaos. Jeff’s book on leadership has been a great encouragement to me, and I have given away many copies. One section that was foundational for me was his section on integrity.
The word integrity is rooted in the word “integer” – which means whole, complete or undivided. As a Christian, I am to consistently apply biblical principles in character and action.
Dr. Jeff Iorg, in The Character of Leadership, shares three spiritual convictions that help us maintain integrity as leaders:
I am in submission to Jesus as Lord. (Philippians 2:5-11)
I am a steward accountable to Jesus as Lord. (Luke 16; 1 Cor. 4:1-2)
I am in an authority structure affirmed by Jesus as Lord. (Romans 13:1-7; Matthew 28:18)
He goes on to share Four Prayers that exemplify a submissive attitude before Jesus as Lord that can help us maintain integrity as leaders:
“Lord, I am expendable. Another day, or many decades, whatever pleases You.”
“Lord, I serve at Your pleasure. Use me, or not, whatever pleases You.”
“Lord, Your kingdom matters. Mine doesn’t. Advance Your cause, whatever that means for me.”
“Lord, you are God, I am not – help me keep that straight today.”
As always, the SBC of Virginia team is thankful for your ministry and praying for the Gospel to be advanced through your ministry. I hope to see you soon.
Your brother in Christ,
BRIAN AUTRY
Executive Director
SBC of Virginia