Sober Leadership

10-7-2009
Sober Leadership

I’ve referenced devotionals from Wisdom Hunters Resources from time to time, as I love the messages they post, so today I am doing the same. I’m often asked what my thoughts are about alcohol as it pertains to Christian leadership. I had my first sip July 30th, 2005 at my brother’s wedding. I feel it’s extremely important to abide by biblical references to all subject matters, and to make sure you read those biblical references in the context in which they were written. For our young readers, you SHOULD NOT DRINK ALCHOLOL UNTIL THE AGE OF 21. It’s harmful on the body, and has all types of physical repercussions as well as mental, emotional, and spiritual. For those over the age of 21, given certain situations, I personally don’t find a problem with having a drink from time to time. Let’s take a look at a 3rd party daily devotional on this topic. Be blessed!
Sober Leadership… “It is not for kings, O Lemuel not for kings to drink wine, not for rulers to crave beer, lest they drink and forget what the law decrees, and deprive all the oppressed of their rights.” Proverbs 31:4-5

Sober leadership is needed for serious leaders, men and women who seek what’s best for the team without being tempted by temporary inebriation. Alcohol and drugs can cause people in power to pretend one thing and do another. It is during casual circumstances that a leader can find their integrity compromised from conducting a too familiar behavior. Leaders in the church are described in this way, “Deacons, likewise, are to be men worthy of respect, sincere, not indulging in much wine, and not pursuing dishonest gain. They must keep hold of the deep truths of the faith with a clear conscience.” (1Timothy 3:8-9). Sober leadership sets the tone for other team members to follow their example. What the leader tolerates in moderation can be taken to the extreme by the less mature. What are your guidelines to protect your decision-making? What behavior do you predetermine before attending a company party or a business trip where your associates expect shady social activities? It is easy to get sucked into a regrettable situation if there are no behavioral boundaries. Perhaps you stay focused on work during the workweek and enjoy rest and relaxation with friends and family on the weekend. Mixing business and pleasure can prove to be an unproductive and destructive combination. Sober leadership sends a message of sincerity and a sense of urgency. It is not void of joy and laughter, but there is an undertone of discipline and seriousness which invites loyalty. Stay sober as a leader and you will reap the rewards of respect and results. Ask others to confront your questionable decisions and actions. Fools flail away in confused thinking while sober minded leaders are clear-headed and humbled by God. “Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment…” (Romans 12:3b). Is my leadership sober minded? Am I conscious of Christ’s wisdom?