Ruling with Integrity

Ruling with Integrity

 

Proverbs 29:4 (KJV) ⁴ The king by judgment establisheth the land: but he that receiveth gifts overthroweth it.

Integrity should be the bedrock principle guiding the decisions of those in power. This includes politicians (wow, did I just type integrity and politician in the same paragraph!), and preachers. All three branches of our government should make decisions based on what is right, and what is best for this great country. The same should be said of the pastor of a New Testament church.
You do not have to study long on this subject to see a Biblical example of a great leader who began his rule with integrity and ended it in shame. Solomon was such a man. His early reign was marked with divine wisdom given to him by God. He was evident in the way he handled the case of the mother, the harlot, and the baby.

Within a year of his enthronement, Solomon had dealt with Shimei, Joab, and Abiathar and had executed Adonijah. Solomon had nipped in the bud any possibility of insurrection and everyone had seen the fairness of his dealings with these past and prospective troublemakers. His actions sent a strong message to the tribes that although he was a man of peace rather than a man of war like David, he was not to be trifled with.

Solomon built the temple with the money raised by David according to divine specifications and dedicated it with great pomp and ceremony. The nation had a central place of worship and the entire Levitical code could be upheld. The shekinah glory cloud hovered over the temple to signify to one and all that God was in residence, enthroned among His people. God was in His temple and all was well with the land.

Solomon would not continue to rule with integrity. The crack in his ruling armor began when he decided against the law of God to marry a pagan Egyptian women. God had clearly instructed the King concerning his conduct.

He shall not multiply horses to himself, nor cause the people to return to Egypt, to the end that he should multiply horses: forasmuch as the Lord hath said unto you, Ye shall henceforth return no more that way. Neither shall he multiply wives to himself, that his heart turn not away: neither shall he greatly multiply to himself silver and gold (Deuteronomy 17:16-17).

Solomon broke all three principles God gave to Kings. It began with wives, continued with horses, and culminated with money.

Power and money can corrupt. We see it politically and we see it on occasion with preachers. Politically, may the Lord bring revival to those governing. In the pulpit, may the Lord remind us of our mission. We are to minister. We are here to build His kingdom. Integrity is needed.