A good name is more desirable than great riches; to be esteemed is better than silver or gold.
–Proverbs 22:1 (NIV)
One would think that with all my years in the military, I would have more of an interest in politics, but I don’t. While I understand the democratic process, I rarely follow specific campaigns, watch debates, or pay attention to many of the details until it gets close to election time.
Yet one year, I knew one of the candidates personally. This changed my entire attitude toward the local elections because I felt she was, hands down, the best candidate for the job. Not only did she have many years of experience and an understanding of what the job required, but she was a woman of integrity! She refused to stoop to the same level as her counterparts and “bash” her opponents just to get ahead. When I told her this, she commented that one “slogan” continually used by other candidates was to highlight their integrity. She would rather have her actions speak for themselves. In my experience, it’s much easier to claim integrity than to live it! When we strive to be honest and trustworthy people, we build a good reputation for ourselves and God.
Leaders are more effective when they earn the respect of the people working under them, instead of expecting respect because of their position, in my opinion. When the political landscape contains corruption and dishonesty, it is a breath of fresh air to know that people of integrity are trying to make a difference.
When we claim to be Christians, pre-believers see our actions as a direct reflection on God. What sort of reputation do you have?
Tammy Ortung
Stonecroft Military National Consultant
Military
