In the book Questions of Character, the author Joseph L. Badaracco Jr., uses an African tribal leader named Okonkwo to explain the necessity of flexibility in a leaders moral code. Okonkwo’s moral code was formed by the traditions …show more content…
Badaracco stresses the importance of respecting society while not losing ones moral code yet bending that code to ensure the best outcome for the majority of the individuals involved. Utilizing “Model the Way”, Maxwell emphasizes the importance of setting the example by clarifying ones personal values then conveying those values through one’s action. By determining what it best for the individuals involved, a leader must take responsibility of the situation, respecting societies beliefs and setting the example for those who follow …show more content…
Fortunately, God has provided us with a moral code to center our decisions and actions on – the Bible. For example, even though the Ten Commandments specifically states, “Though shall not commit adultery” (Exodus 20:14), yet Jesus forgave an adulterous woman for her sins upon meeting her at the Pharisees home (Luke 7:36-48). Another example of biblical moral flexibility is the forgiveness between Esau and Jacob (Genesis 33) despite Esau knowing that lying and deception are immoral.
It is important to realize the correlation between Badaracco and Kouzes/Posner/Maxwell’s leadership advice and the Bible. All three guidelines speak of the importance of integrity. Integrity is defined as the adherence to moral and ethical principles, soundness of moral character, honesty and virtue (Fisher & Martini, 2004, p. 9). A leader’s integrity is what determine whom the leader is and how the leader acts. As Solomon spoke in the book of Proverbs 10:9 “Whoever walks in integrity walks securely, but he who makes his ways crooked will be found