Wisdom for WorkSample

Respectable Leaders

“Now the overseer must be above reproach, the husband of but one wife, temperate, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, not given to drunkenness, not violent but gentle, not quarrelsome, not a lover of money.” 1 Timothy 3:2-3

Respectability invites respect. You may say, “I can’t get any respect.” If so, what do you base your expectations on? Is it your charm, charisma, or ability to converse well? All of these do not mean you are respectable; in fact, they can repel respect and garner disrespect. Your skills and gifts require the character to convene the admiration of others. 

Respect is earned, not demanded. It is sustained by influence and not position. Presidents, preachers, and parents are given respect by their position, but if they consistently underperform or lack integrity, they lose respect. It is not a right of the irresponsible, but a privilege of the dependable. Respectable leaders get the right results in the right way. 

Respectable leaders also rise to the occasion and do the right things. They persevere and provide stability instead of panicking and creating chaos. They take responsibility by espousing the values of the organization, by not gossiping and blaming others. There is a depth of character that runs deep within their soul, not to be stolen by sin.

Lastly, a respectable leader is well-thought-of when their track records are one of trustworthiness, honesty, and follow-through. However, the goal is not for people to like you. They may not like you when you lovingly hold them accountable, but they will respect you. They may not like your discipline, but they will respect your consistency. They may not embrace your beliefs, but if expressed in humility they will respect you. Perhaps you ask, “Am I respectable?” If so, you can expect respect. 

What area of my character needs growth and transformation, so to solicit respect?

The Bible says, “A sensible person wins admiration, but a warped mind is despised” Proverbs 12:8. (NLT)