LEADERSHIP Series: Hate Covetousness

The terms “emotional fluency” or “EQ” (the ability to use emotions effectively) are sometimes used when describing the process of developing positive corporate culture by practicing integrity.

Proverbs 28:16 (MSG) Among leaders who lack insight [or judgment], abuse abounds, but for one who hates corruption [covetousness], the future is bright.

The juxtaposition of covetousness and the lack of insight drive us to look inward to understand motivation and behavior.

Examples of corrupt leadership include:

• those who coerce staff to fudge on the inventory; or
• book phantom orders in response to quarterly scrutiny; or
• the abusive manager, who sucks the very life out of the team.

Leaders must resist behaviors that is “all about them and their success” by utilizing an equally powerful emotion – hate. That’s right – righteous hate: we must hate corruption and covetousness! It takes that emotional commitment to turn from self-serving behavior to practice integrity.

Integrity built on an understanding of our purpose – a purpose given us by our Creator. Sometimes those insights about our motivations and lack of purpose come from transparent communication with friends who are wise – the kind of insight that helps us lead others into a “bright future.”

Do you have the kind of friends that help you hate your self-serving behavior?

Copyright ©2009 by P. Griffith Lindell