Our Daily Bread: Character-Driven LeadershipExemplo

In All Our Dealings

We have lived with a God-given holiness and sincerity in all our dealings. -2 Corinthians 1:12

In 1524, Martin Luther observed, “Among themselves the merchants have a common rule which is their chief maxim . . . I care nothing about my neighbor; so long as I have my profit and satisfy my greed.” More than two hundred years later, John Woolman, from Mount Holly, New Jersey, let his commitment to Jesus influence his tailor shop dealings. Out of support for the freeing of slaves, he refused to purchase any cotton or dye supplies from companies who used their forced labor. With a clear conscience, he loved his neighbor and lived according to integrity and sincerity in all his dealings.

The apostle Paul strived to live out “integrity and godly sincerity” (2 CORINTHIANS 1:12). When some in Corinth tried to undermine his authority as an apostle for Jesus, he defended his conduct among them. He wrote that his words and actions could withstand the closest scrutiny (V. 13). He also showed that he was dependent on God’s power and grace for effectiveness, not his own (V. 12). In short, Paul’s faith in Christ permeated all his dealings.

As we live as ambassadors for Jesus, may we be careful to let the good news ring out in all our dealings—family, business, and more. When by God’s power and grace we reveal His love to others, we honor Him and love our neighbors well.

MARVIN WILLIAMS

How are your words and actions a representation of your faith in Jesus? As a believer in Him, why are integrity and sincerity vital in your dealings with others?

Dear God, help me to serve others with such a clear conscience that my love for them is evident.